Director of Sustainable Development

Connected Local Government; Luton; On-site; GBP 125,000 - GBP 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A progressive local government in Luton seeks a visionary Director of Sustainable Development to guide major projects that align with their Luton 2040 vision. This role involves ensuring balanced economic prosperity with environmental responsibility, managing initiatives from airport expansion to green transport. The successful candidate will demonstrate strategic leadership and collaboration skills to deliver on ambitious goals and foster a culture of innovation within their team.

Qualifications

• Strong strategic leader with experience in steering complex projects.
• Ability to collaborate across departments and with external partners.
• Proven track record of delivering sustainable development initiatives.

Responsibilities

• Steer the Luton 2040 vision and guide major transformation projects.
• Champion universal accessibility and sustainable infrastructure.
• Work with various stakeholders to tackle climate change.

Skills

Strategic leadership

Collaboration

Project management

Sustainability advocacy

Job description

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, bus service improvement 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.

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]

To apply please click theApply Nowlink below.