JOB DESCRIPTION

TOWN OF HILTON HEAD ISLAND, SC

Planning Director

Shape the Future of One of America's Most Iconic Coastal Communities

Hilton Head Island is seeking a visionary, strategic leader to serve as its next Planning Director — a pivotal executive role at the heart of one of the Southeast's most beloved destinations. With a thriving community, sensitive coastal environment, and ambitious plans for the future, this is a career-defining opportunity for an experienced planning professional ready to lead with purpose.

POSITION DETAILS

Department: Planning

Salary Range: $160,000 – $175,000

Reports To: Deputy Town Manager

FLSA Status: Exempt

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Bachelor's in Urban Planning, Public Admin, Architecture, or related field (Master's preferred) | 10+ years of planning experience, with 7+ years in senior leadership | Coastal or tourism-driven municipality experience a plus | AICP Certification preferred

What You'll Do

• Lead and execute strategic direction for all planning and development services — from long-range visioning and zoning policy to housing strategy and natural resource protection.
• Serve as the Land Management Ordinance (LMO) Official and represent the department before Town Council, Planning Commission, Design Review Board, and regional/state/federal partners.
• Drive the Town's Comprehensive Plan, Workforce Housing Framework, and Council goals from concept to implementation.
• Mentor and develop a high-performing team including the Assistant Planning Director, Community Planning Manager, and Chief Housing Officer.
• Manage department budgets, capital improvement programs, grants, and consultant services with a focus on fiscal accountability and innovation.
• Champion community engagement and serve as a trusted bridge between residents, developers, elected officials, and partner organizations.

Who You Are

• A proven executive with deep expertise in urban planning, land use policy, zoning, and community development.
• A collaborative leader who thrives on building consensus, navigating politically sensitive issues, and forging lasting partnerships.
• A skilled communicator with executive presence — equally comfortable presenting data to Council as you are listening at a neighborhood meeting.
• A data-driven strategist with command of GIS tools, spatial analysis, and evidence-based decision-making.
• A champion of smart growth, climate resilience, hazard mitigation, and equitable housing solutions.

BENEFITS

The Town provides a strong benefits package designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance, including: Health, dental, vision, and life insurance, Employer-paid life and disability insurance, Retirement benefits, including a 401(k) match and 457 Deferred Compensation Plan, Paid vacation, sick leave, and floating holidays ,Professional development opportunities , Employee credit union access & Relocation assistance