Director of Community Development

About the role

Cheltenham Township is seeking a Director of Community Development to lead a team charged with administration and oversight of the Township’s land use and planning, code enforcement, building permit and related functions. The township is a diverse, inner-ring suburban community with over 37,000 residents, close proximity to Philadelphia, multiple business districts, two historic districts, robust public transportation, 25 parks and open spaces, and multiple institutes of higher education across its nine square miles. The Director works closely with the Township Manager, Board of Commissioners, Planning Commission, Shade Tree Advisory Commission, Zoning Hearing Board, property owners, contractors, and the development community. The position will oversee a staff of [number unspecified]; therefore, the ability to clearly communicate technical subject matter across a diverse and disparate array of stakeholders is critical.

Responsibilities

• Manage, coach, and develop team members
• Provide extensive depth of expertise in land use, zoning, code enforcement, historic preservation, environmental planning, economic development, and related areas
• Assist in reviewing and developing policies and procedures
• Determine efficient and innovative ways to accomplish the Township’s strategies

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in engineering, planning, urban studies, public administration, or a related field (master’s degree preferred)
• Minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in municipal planning, zoning, and land use administration
• Minimum of four years of supervisory and management experience, including significant project management experience
• Pennsylvania Zoning Officer certification required (or must be obtained within 6 months of appointment)
• Valid Pennsylvania Driver’s License required

Qualifications

• BCO, PE and/or AICP certifications preferred
• Experience with ArcGIS and ERP systems (OpenGov) a plus

Skills

• Ability to clearly communicate technical subject matter across a diverse and disparate array of stakeholders
• Expertise in land use, zoning, code enforcement, historic preservation, environmental planning, economic development
• Project management

Benefits

Position includes benefits.

Pay

Salary range: $130,000 to $152,000 DOQ.