Group Manager, UK Central Hub Development

at  Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council

Job Introduction
We are offering an exceptional opportunity for a Group Manager to be responsible for facilitating one of the most exciting development opportunities in the UK.
The Hub is a 1,300-hectare, mixed use, thriving commercial site in Solihull, just off Junction 6 of the M42 motorway. It is home to Birmingham Airport, the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham International Station, Birmingham Business Park, Jaguar Land Rover and the 140-hectare Arden Cross development site which is the location of the new HS2 Interchange Station.
The UK Central Hub development is at the centre of the UK’s transportation network and offers unique development opportunities that benefit from unrivalled connectivity. With the arrival of high-speed rail and with major investment in local transport infrastructure, the Hub will become one of the UK’s best-connected destinations for business, leisure and living The Hub - Invest in UK Central
This exciting and challenging role builds on the work of the former Urban Growth Company. The role has been created to lead engagement with our many stakeholders to ensure that the development of the Hub meets the Council’s strategic objectives and maximises sustainable growth in the Borough and the West Midlands. The role includes identifying and implementing a funding strategy for the Hub, which may include developer/ landowner contributions, planning obligations, business rates retention and national and opportunities for regional grant funding.

To meet the challenge and be successful in the role you will have:

• A Degree Qualification in a relevant discipline such as architecture, surveying, planning or civil engineering.
• Demonstrable track record of leadership and innovation in the delivery of land development and regeneration strategies.
• Demonstrable experience of highly effective partnership working with multi-disciplinary teams in a development focussed environment and influencing and shaping strategy.
• Experience of commissioning land and property development activity using various forms of delivery (direct, joint venture, partnership) and financing methods.
• Ability to exercise effective judgment and manage priorities within constrained timescales, resources and competing pressures.

In return for your commitment and contribution, the successful applicant will be offered:

• A range of flexible working options, including hybrid working.
• Generous annual leave entitlements with the opportunity to purchase up to 10-days additional leave per year.
• A flexitime scheme with up to 24 days per year.
• A positive and supportive environment in which to train and continue your professional development.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme – a 24 hour independent, free and confidential advice and support service.
• Family and carer friendly policies.
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Employee benefits including staff discounts, subsidised travel passes and Cycle 2 Work Scheme.
• As an essential car user, free parking is available.
• Relocation may be available for eligible candidates

Please submit your CV and a supporting statement that explains how you meet the requirements of the Job Description and Person Specification by following the apply link. If you have any questions regarding the role or would like to chat further about your suitability for it, please contact Alan Smith, Head of Service at alan.smith@solihull.gov.uk .
Closing date for applications 3rd November 2024.
Shortlisted applicants will be asked to undertake psychometric tests as part of the selection process. Successful applicants will then be invited to interview on 22nd November 2024
Small enough to care, but big enough to make a difference.

• A Degree Qualification in a relevant discipline such as architecture, surveying, planning or civil engineering.
• Demonstrable track record of leadership and innovation in the delivery of land development and regeneration strategies.
• Demonstrable experience of highly effective partnership working with multi-disciplinary teams in a development focussed environment and influencing and shaping strategy.
• Experience of commissioning land and property development activity using various forms of delivery (direct, joint venture, partnership) and financing methods.
• Ability to exercise effective judgment and manage priorities within constrained timescales, resources and competing pressures