Strategic Development Lead - UK Central and HS2

Job Introduction

This is a rare opportunity to play a leading role in shaping the UK Central Hub—one of the UK’s most ambitious and well-connected development locations.

About the Hub

The UK Central Hub spans 1,300 hectares of mixed‑use, thriving commercial space in Solihull, ideally located just off Junction 6 of the M42. This nationally significant destination is home to:

• Birmingham Airport
• The National Exhibition Centre (NEC)
• The new HS2 Interchange Station
• Arden Cross – a 140‑hectare development site planned to be anchored by a University of Warwick-led Health Tech Campus
• Birmingham International Station on the West Coast Main Line
• Birmingham Business Park
• Jaguar Land Rover

With unrivalled transport connectivity, major infrastructure investment and the arrival of high‑speed rail, the Hub is set to bolster its position as one of the UK’s most connected and dynamic places for business, leisure and living The Hub - Invest in UK Central.

About the Role

Working at the heart of Solihull Council’s growth agenda, you will lead the strategic development of the UK Central Hub, engaging with public and private sector partners to unlock investment accelerate delivery and drive sustainable economic growth.

You will operate at a senior level, building relationships with major developers, Government, HS2, West Midlands Combined Authority and investors to shape and deliver a shared vision for growth. Combining commercial insight with public purpose, you will develop comprehensive funding strategies, influence major infrastructure and regeneration programmes, and ensure delivery of new homes, jobs and high-quality places.

You’ll also help make sure the benefits of development across the UK Central Hub are felt across Solihull and the wider West Midlands, including the East Birmingham North Solihull Mayoral Development Zone (MDZ).

With a timetable for releasing land for the delivery of Arden Cross in place now is the perfect time to take the lead in shaping this nationally significant development.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Leading high-profile partnerships with developers, landowners, investors and public sector partners
• Shaping and delivering a long-term vision for growth, regeneration and place-making
• Unlocking funding and investment through innovative funding strategies
• Driving forward complex, multi-agency programmes and major infrastructure projects
• Translating strategic ambition into deliverable, real world outcomes

About You

To be successful in this role, you will bring:

• A strong track record of leadership and innovation in development, regeneration or infrastructure
• Demonstrable experience of collaborative partnership working with the private and public sector, and the confidence to influence, negotiate and deliver at scale.
• Experience commissioning land and property development activities across a range of delivery models (direct delivery, joint ventures, partnerships) and financing methods.
• Strong judgement and the ability to manage competing priorities, limited resources and tight timescales effectively.
• A degree in a relevant discipline such as architecture, surveying, planning or civil engineering.

What We Offer

In recognition of your expertise, leadership and commitment, we offer:

• A range of flexible working options, including hybrid working.
• Generous annual leave entitlements with the opportunity to purchase up to 10-days additional leave per year.
• A flexitime scheme.
• A positive and supportive environment in which to train and continue your professional development.
• Access to our Employee Assistance Programme – a 24-hour independent, free and confidential advice and support service.
• Family and carer friendly policies.
• Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme.
• Employee benefits including staff discounts, subsidised travel passes and Cycle 2 Work Scheme.
• As an essential car user, free parking is available.

Please submit your CV and a supporting statement that explains how you meet the requirements of the Job Description and Person Specification by following the apply link. If you have any questions regarding the role please contact: Tom Hobbs, Group Manager Programme Development at ***email_hidden***

Closing date for applications 9 August 2026

Shortlisted applicants will be asked to undertake psychometric tests as part of the selection process. Successful applicants will then be invited to interview 2 September 2026

Solihull Council has a responsibility for, and is committed to, safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and adults at risk, and requires all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Solihull Council is proud to be an Equal Opportunities Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees - a place where we can all be ourselves and succeed on merit.