What are the responsibilities and job description for the Director of Planning and Development position at City of High Point?
A community that seamlessly blends rich history, cultural vibrancy, and economic opportunity, High Point is North Carolina’s ninth-largest city and the only one positioned at the crossroads of four counties: Guilford, Davidson, Forsyth, and Randolph. The City has evolved from a rural outpost to an international hub of commerce and culture, home to approximately 118,370 residents.
The Planning and Development Department has a mission to shape a more livable High Point by facilitating and promoting a shared, comprehensive plan for the development of the community that advances a quality environment, both natural and built; by creating strategies that guide development in a manner that protects and enhances the community; and by administering services that implement the comprehensive plan and form a safe, sustainable and livable place. The department includes 14 professionals and is working with a FY 2025 budget of approximately $1.66 million. The Director of Planning and Development is a key leadership position that provides oversight and direction to the Planning and Development Department and will help the Council shape the City’s future.
The City of High Point is seeking a strategic and visionary leader to serve as its next Director of Planning and Development. This position oversees the division heads and staff carrying out departmental work programs; manages the departmental budget and expenditures; and identifies, develops, and collaborates on addressing City needs, trends, and critical issues while working closely with public officials and citizen groups. The next Director of Planning and Development will play a pivotal role in shaping the City’s future by aligning development initiatives with community goals and preparing the department for long-term success. This position offers the chance to drive meaningful change, engage with diverse stakeholders, and lead a dynamic team in implementing forward-thinking policies and practices that will support sustainable growth and enhance quality of life.
Qualifications for this position include any combination of education and experience equivalent to graduation from an accredited college or university with major work in planning or a related field, with a master’s degree in planning, architecture, landscape architecture, public administration, or a related field preferred. Candidates must have their certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners and 10 years of responsible professional experience, including management/supervisory experience and training. Experience working with historic districts, a university or other large institutions, and updating comprehensive plans and zoning codes is highly desirable, as is private sector experience in development and previous work streamlining processes and developing planning professionals. The City prefers that the successful candidate establish residency within their first year of employment, and relocation assistance may be available. The new hire must also maintain a valid North Carolina driver’s license throughout their tenure.
The starting salary for this position ranges from $104,592-$141,957, dependent on qualifications and experience. High Point also provides a generous benefits program, including health, vision, dental, and life insurance.
How to apply: Applications will be accepted electronically by SGR at governmentresource.com. Applicants complete a brief online form and are prompted to provide a cover letter and resume. Please click this link to apply:
https://www.governmentresource.com/recruitment-employers/open-recruitments/high-point-nc-planning-director
For more information on this position contact:
Lissa Barker, Sr. Vice President Strategic Government Resources LissaBarker@GovernmentResource.com 817-266-0647
Salary : $104,592 - $141,957
