JOB DESCRIPTION

This position plays a critical role in shaping development and policies for the City of Savannah and Chatham County and ensuring high-quality service delivery to elected officials, community partners, developers, and the public.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Manage daily operations of Development Services and Current Planning, ensuring compliance with MPC policies and federal, state, and local ordinances.
• Review applications, site plans, blueprints, and related documents for ordinance compliance.
• Prepare and present written and verbal reports and make recommendations to the Planning Commission, the City and County Zoning Boards of Appeal, City Council, County Commission, elected officials, and public groups.
• Lead updates to zoning ordinances and development plans, including preparation of text amendments, Future Land Use Map updates and/or amendments, policies, and procedures.
• Provide training, guidance, direction, and evaluation to staff while promoting a collaborative team culture.
• Represent the MPC, the City of Savannah and/or Chatham County in meetings with elected officials, community organizations, developers, and stakeholders.
• Engage with community groups and neighborhood associations to support understanding of development processes and ordinances.
• Ensure effective project management across programs and major development applications.
• Offer strategic insight regarding regulatory implications and development priorities.

Minimum Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Urban or Regional Planning, Civil Engineering, or a related field (Master's degree preferred).
• Seven to ten years of planning-related experience, including at least three years in a public agency.
• Three to five years of supervisory/management experience.
• Experience with GIS required; working knowledge of Esri products preferred.
• Valid Class C driver's license with a satisfactory driving record.

Preferred Certifications (not required)

• American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP)
• Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED)

Skills & Competencies

• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Ensure internal deadlines are met for various meetings.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to interpret and apply federal, state, and local ordinances.
• Capacity to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent diplomacy and judgment when engaging staff, elected officials, and the public.
• Strategic thinking and relationship-building across diverse stakeholders.
• Competence in training, mentoring, leadership development, and team management.