Director (Director of Planning and Urban Design)

JOB DESCRIPTION

The Director of Planning and Urban Development provides executive leadership and strategic direction for the planning, zoning, development review, and urban revitalization activities of the Unified Government of Wyandotte County and Kansas City, Kansas. This position is responsible for guiding long-range planning initiatives, managing development and land use policies, supporting economic development objectives, and ensuring equitable, sustainable growth across the community. The Director works closely with the Mayor/CEO, County Administrator, Planning Commission, City Council, community stakeholders, and regional partners to shape policies that enhance quality of life, support investment, and promote responsible land use. Valid Kansas Driver's License is required. Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership Lead the Department of Planning and Urban Development in developing and implementing long-range planning strategies and policies. Oversee updates to the Comprehensive Plan, area plans, and land use policies. Align planning initiatives with economic development, housing, transportation, and sustainability goals. Advise executive leadership and elected officials on planning policy, land use issues, and development trends. Development and Land Use Management Direct zoning administration, subdivision review, site plan review, and permitting coordination. Ensure development proposals comply with zoning codes, design standards, and comprehensive planning policies. Oversee development review processes to ensure efficiency, transparency, and consistency. Urban Revitalization and Community Development Lead redevelopment and revitalization initiatives in targeted corridors and neighborhoods. Coordinate planning activities that support housing affordability, mixed-use development, and neighborhood stabilization. Collaborate with public, nonprofit, and private sector partners to advance strategic projects. Policy Development Develop and recommend zoning amendments, land use regulations, and development policies. Prepare and present reports, policy recommendations, and planning initiatives to the Planning Commission, City Council, and other governing bodies. Ensure planning policies reflect best practices in sustainability, equity, resilience, and community engagement. Departmental Management Manage departmental staff, budget, and operational priorities. Establish performance standards and ensure high-quality service delivery. Promote professional development and continuous improvement within the department. Community Engagement Foster transparent and inclusive engagement with residents, developers, businesses, and neighborhood organizations. Lead public meetings, workshops, and planning processes that incorporate community input. Serve as a public-facing representative of the department and the Unified Government. Qualifications Education Bachelor's Degree in Urban Planning, City and Regional Planning, Public Administration, Architecture, or a related field. Master's Degree preferred. Experience 7 years of progressively responsible administrative experience in a public agency. 8-10 years of progressively responsible experience in urban planning, community development, or land use policy. At least 5 years in a senior leadership or management role. Experience in municipal or county government preferred. Certifications Certification from the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) preferred. Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Expertise in comprehensive planning, zoning, land use law, and development review. Strong understanding of urban redevelopment, housing policy, and economic development strategies. Ability to build consensus among elected officials, community members, and developers. Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Familiarity with GIS, planning analytics, and data-informed policy development. Working Relationships This position works closely with: Mayor/CEO and County Administration Planning Commission and Board of Commissioners Economic Development Department Public Works and Transportation agencies Neighborhood organizations and community stakeholders Regional planning and development partners Compensation Salary is commensurate with experience and consistent with executive-level municipal positions.

BENEFITS

The Unified Government offers a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement plans, paid leave, and professional development opportunities.