7 Senior Management Roles jobs in Bedford

• Develop and manage the organization's strategic planning process and long-term vision.
• Conduct comprehensive market research, competitive intelligence, and industry analysis.
• Identify and evaluate new business opportunities and strategic initiatives.
• Develop detailed strategic plans, including financial models and performance metrics.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to align departmental strategies with overall corporate goals.
• Prepare and present strategic recommendations and business cases to executive teams.
• Monitor industry trends and advise on potential impacts and opportunities.
• Drive the implementation of strategic initiatives across the organization.
• Foster a culture of strategic thinking and continuous improvement.
• Manage external consultants and research partners as needed.

• Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA), Finance, Economics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7 years of progressive experience in strategic planning, corporate strategy, or business development.
• Proven ability to develop and execute complex strategic plans.
• Strong analytical, financial modeling, and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Demonstrated experience in market analysis and competitive intelligence.
• Ability to influence and collaborate effectively with senior stakeholders.
• Proficiency in business strategy frameworks and planning tools.
• Experience in managing projects and cross-functional teams.
• Strategic mindset with a focus on long-term business growth.

We are an award-winning planning, development, and ecology consultancy providing bespoke, commercially sound advice to a wide range of private clients. Our work is primarily focused on residential planning, with a portfolio that spans the full spectrum of development projects - from large-scale schemes with national house builders to smaller, unique domestic projects.

The team specialises in coordinating project teams, shaping development proposals, and building strong relationships with local planning authorities to secure planning permission. With projects across Bedfordshire, Greater London, the Southeast, and beyond, we are known for our commercial insight, problem-solving ability, and the trusted relationships we maintain with our clients.

As a small, friendly team, we offer an enjoyable and supportive working environment. Team members benefit from direct access to clients and projects, which creates excellent opportunities for professional development. Career progression is actively encouraged and supported.

The Role

Building on your strong policy knowledge in Local Plan representations and strategic land promotion, you will work closely with colleagues in the Land and Planning departments to identify sites for residential and mixed-use development, taking into account both technical and planning considerations. Previous experience in local plans or policy is desirable.

You will liaise with landowners to assess the planning potential of their sites, preparing appraisals to inform planning strategies. You will also engage with developers to provide planning input during site acquisition and sales processes.

Depending on your experience and training, you may also support senior planning colleagues with Development Management work, either linked to a strategic site or other planning projects across the business.

You will receive training in the administrative aspects of consultancy work (such as managing client enquiries, preparing Confirmation of Instructions, time recording, and invoicing) and will also be encouraged to gain experience in related areas, including ecology.

Strategic Planning

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

Assisting senior colleagues in the Planning and Land departments with:

Site Searches

• Selecting locations strategically, considering factors such as 5-year land supply, Green Belt, and market values.
• Identifying potential sites based on technical and planning constraints.
• Researching Local Plans, SHLAAs, and Neighbourhood Plans.
• Contacting landowners or their representatives.
• Monitoring Local Plan and Neighbourhood Plan preparation to identify key consultation stages.

Networking

• Meeting with developers and maintaining a database of site requirements.
• Engaging with agents and identifying potential landowners (private, public, and corporate).

Development Appraisals

Development Management (as required)

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

Supporting senior planning colleagues with:

• Reviewing enquiry details and preparing responses.
• Preparing fee proposals during the enquiry process.
• Preparing and submitting planning applications, pre-application schemes, and appeals.
• Conducting site appraisals and policy reviews.
• Checking documents and reports for accuracy, compliance, and alignment with project strategy.
• Analysis and research related to Local Plan or policy preparation.
• Coordinating other consultants and obtaining fee quotes.
• Conducting photographic surveys during site visits.
• Advising colleagues on planning procedural changes, legislation, and their implications.
• Assisting with public consultations, including preparing materials and attending events.
• Monitoring planning applications and liaising with Case Officers for updates.
• Gathering and analysing data for project assessments.
• Attending meetings with clients, stakeholders, Parish Councils, and Planning Committees, with responsibility for note-taking.
• Supporting general administration tasks such as filing, document preparation, and database management.
• Managing your workload effectively on a weekly basis.
• Developing technical knowledge and understanding of planning and environmental law.
• Working towards professional qualifications and undertaking ongoing training.

We are an award-winning planning, development, and ecology consultancy providing bespoke, commercially sound advice to a wide range of private clients. Our work is primarily focused on residential planning, with a portfolio that spans the full spectrum of development projects - from large-scale schemes with national house builders to smaller, unique domestic projects.

The team specialises in coordinating project teams, shaping development proposals, and building strong relationships with local planning authorities to secure planning permission. With projects across Bedfordshire, Greater London, the Southeast, and beyond, we are known for our commercial insight, problem-solving ability, and the trusted relationships we maintain with our clients.

As a small, friendly team, we offer an enjoyable and supportive working environment. Team members benefit from direct access to clients and projects, which creates excellent opportunities for professional development. Career progression is actively encouraged and supported.

The Role

Building on your strong policy knowledge in Local Plan representations and strategic land promotion, you will work closely with colleagues in the Land and Planning departments to identify sites for residential and mixed-use development, taking into account both technical and planning considerations. Previous experience in local plans or policy is desirable.

You will liaise with landowners to assess the planning potential of their sites, preparing appraisals to inform planning strategies. You will also engage with developers to provide planning input during site acquisition and sales processes.

Depending on your experience and training, you may also support senior planning colleagues with Development Management work, either linked to a strategic site or other planning projects across the business.

You will receive training in the administrative aspects of consultancy work (such as managing client enquiries, preparing Confirmation of Instructions, time recording, and invoicing) and will also be encouraged to gain experience in related areas, including ecology.

Strategic Planning

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

Assisting senior colleagues in the Planning and Land departments with:

Site Searches

• Selecting locations strategically, considering factors such as 5-year land supply, Green Belt, and market values.
• Identifying potential sites based on technical and planning constraints.
• Researching Local Plans, SHLAAs, and Neighbourhood Plans.
• Contacting landowners or their representatives.
• Monitoring Local Plan and Neighbourhood Plan preparation to identify key consultation stages.

Networking

• Meeting with developers and maintaining a database of site requirements.
• Engaging with agents and identifying potential landowners (private, public, and corporate).

Development Appraisals

Development Management (as required)

Main Duties and Responsibilities:

Supporting senior planning colleagues with:

• Reviewing enquiry details and preparing responses.
• Preparing fee proposals during the enquiry process.
• Preparing and submitting planning applications, pre-application schemes, and appeals.
• Conducting site appraisals and policy reviews.
• Checking documents and reports for accuracy, compliance, and alignment with project strategy.
• Analysis and research related to Local Plan or policy preparation.
• Coordinating other consultants and obtaining fee quotes.
• Conducting photographic surveys during site visits.
• Advising colleagues on planning procedural changes, legislation, and their implications.
• Assisting with public consultations, including preparing materials and attending events.
• Monitoring planning applications and liaising with Case Officers for updates.
• Gathering and analysing data for project assessments.
• Attending meetings with clients, stakeholders, Parish Councils, and Planning Committees, with responsibility for note-taking.
• Supporting general administration tasks such as filing, document preparation, and database management.
• Managing your workload effectively on a weekly basis.
• Developing technical knowledge and understanding of planning and environmental law.
• Working towards professional qualifications and undertaking ongoing training.

• Developing and executing the company's strategic plan, translating vision into actionable initiatives.
• Overseeing and optimizing all day-to-day operational functions, including supply chain, logistics, and process management.
• Leading and mentoring cross-functional teams to achieve operational excellence and strategic goals.
• Analyzing market trends, competitive landscape, and internal performance data to identify opportunities and risks.
• Developing key performance indicators (KPIs) and monitoring progress against strategic objectives.
• Managing budgets, resource allocation, and capital expenditure for operational and strategic projects.
• Collaborating with executive leadership to define company direction and ensure strategic alignment.
• Implementing best practices in operational management, quality control, and risk management.
• Driving innovation and continuous improvement across all business units.
• Building and maintaining strong relationships with key stakeholders, partners, and suppliers.

• Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA), Operations Management, or a related field.
• 10+ years of progressive experience in operations management and strategic planning roles, with at least 3-5 years in a senior leadership capacity.
• Demonstrated success in developing and implementing successful strategic plans that have driven significant business growth.
• Proven expertise in operational process improvement, lean methodologies, and change management.
• Strong financial acumen and experience with budget management and financial analysis.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to think strategically and execute tactically in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience in diverse industries is a plus.
• Proficiency in project management methodologies and tools.
• Adept at data analysis and using insights to drive decision-making.

• Develop and implement comprehensive operational strategies to meet business goals.
• Oversee daily operations, ensuring efficiency, quality, and cost-effectiveness.
• Manage departmental budgets and financial performance.
• Lead, motivate, and develop the operations team.
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for operational success.
• Implement and refine operational processes and workflows for continuous improvement.
• Conduct risk assessments and develop mitigation plans for operational challenges.
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure seamless integration of operations.
• Identify and implement innovative solutions and technologies to enhance operational capabilities.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant regulations and standards.

• Bachelor's degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field; MBA preferred.
• Proven experience in a senior management role with extensive operational responsibility.
• Strong understanding of operational frameworks, lean methodologies, and Six Sigma principles.
• Demonstrated ability to develop and execute strategic plans.
• Excellent leadership, team management, and motivational skills.
• Proficiency in data analysis, performance metrics, and reporting.
• Exceptional problem-solving and decision-making capabilities.
• Strong communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience managing budgets and financial resources effectively.
• Adaptability and ability to thrive in a dynamic business environment.

• Developing and refining bespoke menus for a variety of events, catering to diverse dietary needs and preferences.
• Managing supplier relationships and negotiating favourable terms for ingredients and supplies.
• Implementing and enforcing rigorous food safety and hygiene standards.
• Overseeing budget adherence and cost control measures for all catering operations.
• Coordinating with the operations team to ensure timely delivery and flawless execution of catering services.
• Providing virtual training and guidance to kitchen staff and external catering partners.
• Monitoring industry trends and incorporating innovative culinary techniques and presentations.

• A formal culinary qualification and significant experience in a senior catering role.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, adapted for a remote work environment.
• A strong understanding of menu costing and financial management.
• Proficiency in digital tools for project management, communication, and inventory.
• Creativity and a passion for high-quality food presentation and taste.