PLANNING DIRECTOR

Pracademic Partners is assisting the Town of Hilton Head Island with this executive search. Information on how to submit your application is provided after the position information below ___________________________________________________________________ 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. Ready to make your mark on one of America's premier island communities? Apply now and help shape the next chapter of Hilton Head Island. HOW TO APPLY: To express interest, please submit a cover letter, resume, and list of three (3) professional references via email. For clarity in document handling, please format your files as follows: FirstName LastName resume FirstName LastName cover letter FirstName LastName references All application materials will be held in confidence and should be sent to: ian@pracademicpartners.com Subject line: Planning Director - Town of Hilton Head Island Employment is contingent upon a background check, drug and medical screening. This position is considered open until a final selection is made. Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply by May 29, 2026. ___________________________________________________________________ Pracademic Partners is assisting the Town of Hilton Head Island with this executive search. For inquiries or nominations, please contact: Dr. Ian M. Coyle, ICMA-CM 585.943.0589 ___________________________________________________________________ Town of Hilton Head Island is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages candidates from diverse backgrounds to apply.