Director of Sustainable Development

Totalwellnessacupuncture; Luton; On-site; GBP 100,000 - GBP 107,000; Full time

Job summary

A local council in the UK is seeking a Director of Sustainable Development to lead transformative projects in line with the Luton 2040 vision. This role involves strategic oversight of major initiatives, such as airport expansion and town regeneration, with a commitment to sustainability and community engagement. The ideal candidate is a visionary leader with experience in managing complex programmes and fostering collaboration across sectors. Closing date for applications is March 2nd.

Qualifications

• Strategic leader with experience in delivering complex programmes.
• Ability to collaborate across various teams and with partners.
• Experience in system working and high performing team culture.

Responsibilities

• Steer the transformation and delivery of the Luton 2040 vision.
• Navigate major projects concerning airport expansion and town centre regeneration.
• Champion universal accessibility and sustainable infrastructure.

Job description

Luton Borough Council

Director of Sustainable Development

Salary: £100,873 - £106,919 + £3,990 car benefit

Are you ready to shape the future of one of the UK’s most ambitious towns?

Luton Council is seeking a visionary Director of Sustainable Development to steer a bold transformation and guide the delivery of our Luton 2040 vision, a healthy, fair, and sustainable town where everyone thrives.

This is a once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity to shape and influence major projects that will define Luton for decades. From airport expansion and inward investment to town centre regeneration, housing growth, and green transport solutions, you’ll navigate the strategic direction that balances economic prosperity with environmental responsibility.

Your portfolio spans planning policy, development management, highways and transport, fleet transformation, and building control all underpinned by our commitment to net zero carbon by 2040. You will champion universal accessibility and sustainable infrastructure, ensuring our transport networks and public spaces work for everyone.

We are investing in Bus Service Improvement Plans, active travel routes, and innovative approaches to reduce car dependency. You will work with government, businesses, and communities to deliver integrated solutions that tackle climate change, improve air quality, and create a greener, more connected Luton.

To succeed, you will be a corporate player who understands system working, able to collaborate across the Council and with partners to deliver shared goals. You will also build a high performing team culture and ethic, inspiring colleagues to innovate and deliver at pace.

If you’re a strategic leader with the vision, influence, and drive to deliver complex programmes and inspire change, we want to hear from you.

Closing date: Midnight on Monday 2nd of March

To download a candidate pack click here.

For a confidential conversation about this role, please contact our retained consultants at Penna:

Ali Tasker on 07514 728114 or email: [e-mail]

Pete John on 07701 305617 or email: [e-mail]