Planning Director

Planning Director

City of Hickory, NC

The City of Hickory is seeking an experienced and visionary Planning Director to lead the City's Planning Department. Under direction from the City Manager's Office, this position organizes, manages, and oversees all municipal planning functions, including current and long-range planning initiatives. The Planning Director ensures professional, high-quality planning practices that support the City's goals for safety, welfare, economic development, and exceptional quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Manage all plan review activities including comprehensive planning, land use, development review, annexations, historic preservation, economic development, murals, and transportation.

Coordinate development review efforts through meetings with developers, City staff, and the public.

Serve as senior staff advisor to City Council, Board of Adjustment, Planning Commission, and Historic Preservation Commission.

Administer the City's Land Development Code.

Assist and collaborate with designated boards and commissions.

Prepare, coordinate and present special studies, neighborhood plans, business associations and functional plans.

Develop policies and procedures for implementing and coordinating citywide municipal planning programs.

Conduct special studies at the direction of the City Manager related to development, improvements, and economic growth.

Collaborate with other governmental agencies, civic groups, business leaders, and community partners on planning issues.

Advise department staff on complex assignments; review projects and policies for compliance with city, state, and federal laws and codes.

Prepare the department's annual budget and oversee staff work plans.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Extensive knowledge of laws, regulations, principles, and techniques related to land use, transportation planning, commercial and neighborhood development, along with economic development.

Skill in directing municipal planning, zoning operations, and staff.

Ability to read and interpret plans, maps, aerial photographs, and experience with GIS.

Strong public relations skills, including leadership in publicly attended meetings and managing differing interests.

Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

Ability to make professional judgments in applying federal, state, and local laws, ordinances, codes, and guidelines.

Ability to supervise staff effectively and foster strong individual and team performance.

Ability to manage workflows and operations within established budgetary parameters.

Education & Experience Requirements:

Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution in urban planning, geography, public administration, or a related field (master's degree preferred).

Seven (7) years of comprehensive experience in a local government planning department.

Five (5) years of supervisory experience in local government or a closely related work environment preferred.

American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) certification, or ability to obtain certification within 18 months.