Deputy Director, Planning & Sustainability - Development Services

Deputy Director, Planning & Sustainability - Development Services

Salary Range: $140,000+
Job Code: 51005 Pay Grade: 28 FLSA Status: Exempt

The Deputy Director of Development Services serves as a senior executive leader within the Department of Planning & Sustainability. This position provides strategic, operational, and administrative leadership over the centralized development services functions of DeKalb County, including land development, permitting, plan review, inspections, business licensing, zoning intake, and customer service. The role works collaboratively with County leadership, external stakeholders, community partners, and development professionals to ensure efficient, transparent, and customer‑focused development services that support high‑quality growth, economic vitality, code compliance, and sustainable development across DeKalb County.

This position reports directly to the Director of Planning & Sustainability.

• Provides executive oversight and daily management of the Development Services Division.
• Develops and implements policies, procedures, and performance standards to improve operational effectiveness, reduce processing times, and ensure compliance.
• Leads strategic planning initiatives, process improvements, and modernization efforts, including digital permitting, online customer platforms, and cross‑departmental workflow integration.

• Coordinates permitting and development review functions across related departments such as GIS, Fire Marshal’s Office, Watershed Management, Traffic Engineering, Public Works, and Code Enforcement.
• Oversees complex development applications, master plans, subdivision approvals, and land development cases, ensuring timely and accurate processing.
• Ensures development review decisions comply with zoning codes, UDO requirements, and engineering standards.
• Supervises staff including managers, supervisors, planners, engineers, building officials, inspectors, technicians, and customer service personnel.

• Establishes performance metrics, dashboards, and service‑level targets to monitor productivity, workflow efficiency, and customer satisfaction.
• Prepares executive‑level reports, presentations, and policy recommendations to senior leadership, CEO’s Office, County Commissioners, and advisory boards.
• Ensures compliance with federal, state, and local regulations, as well as internal governance standards.

• Serves as the primary liaison to developers, contractors, engineers, neighborhood groups, and planning partners.
• Facilitates conflict resolution, escalated case management, and inter‑agency communication to ensure timely and transparent service delivery.
• Designs and delivers training, outreach sessions, and educational materials for customers and development professionals.

• Assists in developing and managing the division’s annual budget, staffing plan, and resource allocation strategies.
• Identifies grant opportunities, revenue enhancements, and operational efficiencies to support program sustainability.
• Oversees procurement activities, vendor contracts, and technology initiatives supporting Development Services operations.

• Provides leadership, mentorship, and professional development opportunities for staff.
• Promotes a culture of customer service, accountability, innovation, and continuous improvement.
• Ensures compliance with County HR policies, training requirements, and performance management procedures.

• Deep understanding of land development processes, zoning regulations, building codes, engineering standards, and permitting workflows.
• Demonstrated ability to lead large teams and manage complex, multi‑disciplinary operations.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to analyze data, streamline processes, and implement performance‑based management systems.
• Commitment to equity, accountability, sustainability, and excellent public service.

Work is performed in both…