Director of Planning and Economy

WELCOME

Thank you for your interest in joining Southend-on-Sea City Council. If you're reading this, it’s likely that you are someone who is motivated by challenge, driven by purpose, and inspired by place—and Southend is a place that has lots to offer.

Southend-on-Sea is a unique and dynamic coastal city, full of energy, creativity, and ambition. You may already know about our iconic seafront and cultural highlights, but what truly sets Southend apart is its spirit. There’s a deep sense of pride here—among residents, businesses, and colleagues across the council—rooted in our community’s resilience, heritage, and belief in a vibrant future.

This role comes at a pivotal time. As Director of Planning and Economy, you’ll help shape how Southend grows—physically, economically, and sustainably. You’ll join a leadership team that is embracing transformation and reimagining how a city council can work in partnership to deliver opportunity and prosperity for all. Whether it’s overseeing the delivery of the final stages of a new Local Plan, unlocking regeneration potential, driving inward investment, or enabling high-quality development  that meets the needs of our communities—you’ll be at the centre of it all.

This is a city with big ambitions. From the internationally renowned Southend City Jam street art festival, to bold plans for regeneration and place-making, we are building a connected, commercial, and cultural city that thrives for the long term. Our emerging programme of change is focused on outcomes, modernisation, and making Southend a fantastic place to live, work and play. 

If you're ready to make an impact in a city that welcomes innovation and believes in its future, we would love to hear from you. I hope you will consider joining us on this exciting journey.

Alan Richards
Executive Director for Environment and Place