Located in the heart of South Carolina, Columbia stands as the state capital, home of the flagship university, and economic engine for industrial and corporate growth. The city brings in millions of dollars through both tourism and economic development projects, translating into abundant job opportunities. With seven institutions of higher learning and a top-tier military installation, Columbia is actively creating a talent pipeline right in its front yard while also retaining these recent graduates and young professionals.
To view the full position profile, please City of Columbia – Planning Position Profile
Position Summary
The City is seeking a dynamic and experienced leader to serve as Director of Planning and Development Services. This senior leadership position is responsible for the overall direction, management, and administration of the Planning and Development Services Department. This role plays a key part in shaping the city’s growth and development, ensuring alignment with community goals, legal requirements, and best practices in planning and development.
The ideal candidate is an experienced and collaborative professional who possesses strong management skills, a thorough understanding of planning and development processes, and a commitment to public service. Reporting to executive leadership, the Director serves as an advisor and public representative on planning and development matters, guiding complex projects and fostering a high-performing team of professional staff dedicated to service excellence.
Job Responsibilities
The Director of Planning and Development Services provides strategic direction and administrative leadership of the Planning and Development Services Department with oversight of a wide range of critical functions, including long-range planning, historic preservation, urban design, annexation, zoning, land development, permitting, building inspections, and development coordination. This role is responsible for managing administrative functions such as budgeting, staff supervision and development, procurement, and ensuring compliance with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations.
Key responsibilities include fostering the efficient coordination of complex development projects; providing guidance to staff and consultants on technical studies, ordinances, policies, plans, and public outreach efforts; and advising City Council, the City Manager, and other members of the executive leadership team on critical land use and policy matters for both long-range and current planning initiatives. The Director also is responsible for establishing departmental goals, policies, and procedures that are in alignment with City Council’s strategic goals and initiatives.
The Director works closely with developers, design professionals, property owners, community members, and outside agencies to align efforts. Frequent participation in public and civic meetings— including evening events—is required. Professional development is supported and expected through participation in relevant training, conferences, and certification programs.
This is a high-impact leadership role suited for an experienced planning leader committed to guiding the City’s growth and enhancing the quality of life through thoughtful, inspired development.
Why Join Us?
This is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to leave a lasting mark on the City’s landscape and help guide its growth and evolution. If you’re a collaborative leader with strong planning expertise, a passion for urban development, and a commitment to public service, we invite you to bring your vision and leadership to our team.
Qualifications
- Master’s degree in urban planning, geography, public administration, architecture, landscape architecture, law, or closely related field;
- Ten (10) years of relevant progressively responsible prior experience to include supervisory experience;
- American Institute of Certified Planners Certification (AICP) is preferred
- Strong understanding of principals and best practices related to municipal planning, land use policies, zoning, corridor planning, overlay districts, and other urban planning methodologies and strategies;
- Valid South Carolina Class “D” Driver’s License.
The salary offered at the time of hire is expected to be between $110,163 – $143,212, with the broader salary range offering long term salary growth within the role.
The salary offered is complimented by an exceptional benefits package. More information about benefits offered can be found here: https://hr.columbiasc.gov/benefits/.
To Apply
The deadline to apply is September 7th. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis by the FGP team with the final review conducted the week of September 7th. Interviews with City will begin shortly thereafter.
Candidates must meet the qualifications listed above in order to be considered. Questions about the role may be directed to Christin Mack, Manager of Public Sector Executive Search, at cm***@*gp.com.
