Planning and Performance Manager

SummaryWe have an exciting opportunity for a Planning and Performance Manager to join us This role is based at our Service Headquarters in Exeter, and the successful candidate will join us on a permanent, full time (37 hours per week) basis, and in return will receive a salary starting at £53,460 rising annually to £57,416 (gross) per annum. There is the opportunity for some flexible working arrangements with this role, which would need to be discussed and agreed with the hiring manager.We are Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service —England’s largest non-metropolitan Fire & Rescue Service. Our mission? To end preventable emergencies and build safer communities.As Planning and Performance Manager, you’ll sit at the centre of the Service—working closely with the Senior Leadership Team, analysts, and delivery teams to ensure our strategy, planning, and performance frameworks are robust, joined-up and future-facing.From coordinating our annual planning cycle to refining our performance measures, you’ll drive improvements that strengthen our services and keep our communities safe.Find out moreWe want someone who is as comfortable scanning the horizon as they are getting into the detail—someone who blends strategic insight with strong people skills and can champion evidence-led change.You’ll bring:Proven experience in planning, performance, or benefits evaluation.Ability to navigate complex organisation and political landscapes.A collaborative leadership style with a focus on learning and improvement.Strong understanding of organisational performance tools and techniques.Confident working across teams and influencing at every level. Your Key Responsibilities:Lead the delivery of our corporate planning and performance framework.Align planning activity with financial and risk strategy.Work closely with data and insight teams to shape performance indicators.Support managers in embedding performance thinking across the Service.Strengthen links with other fire services and public bodies.Build and lead an inclusive, high-performing team. “One of the most rewarding and purposeful environments I’ve worked in. Here, change is not just organisational, it’s community focused. I would absolutely recommend DSFRS to anyone passionate about delivering meaningful change." — Senior Project Manager, DSFRS“The culture at DSFRS is one of collaboration and positivity - I feel genuinely valued here—my input is not only welcomed but actively sought out There are also ample opportunities for professional development.” — Business Analyst, DSFRSJoining Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service comes with a fulfilling career, where you make a tangible difference every day. But that's not all We value our employees and offer an extensive benefits package, including: Flexible working arrangements to promote work-life balance.A generous pension scheme for your future.Ample annual leave to refresh and recharge.Family leave policies that support your loved ones.Access to physiotherapy services for your well-being.Opportunities for professional development and progression.Free gym access and personalised fitness coaching.Support for eye care and wellness programs.Exclusive Blue Light Membership discounts.Affordable healthcare options through Benenden Health.Engaging Sports and Social Groups for community building.Confidential counselling services and mental health support.A cycle-to-work scheme to promote health commuting.  Our IdentityYou will be required to complete an application form and submit a document to show how you meet the following essential criteria taken from the Job Description and Person Specification.The ability to use knowledge and skills and apply them in a complex political environment.The ability to create innovative approaches to identify improvement opportunities and realise benefits.Significant experience in either planning, performance or benefits evaluation.Experience of successfully managing and leading a team to drive improvement.Proven experience of managing a planning process at a strategic level.A thorough understanding of organisational performance management framework. To help you complete this part of the application form please find attached below the work document “Planning and Performance Manager – Essential Criteria Application”. Please download the document and complete it with your evidence in relation to the above criteria. You can then upload this where requested when completing your application form.Please note the evidence you upload in this document should not exceed 2000 words in total (excluding titles).Details submitted in relation to the above will be used for shortlisting applications received.Closing date for applications: 2359hrs 4 January 2026For informal enquiries regarding the role please contact Jon Worsley, via 07967 021871 or . Our valuesWe are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults, and all employees must share this commitment and adhere to the Service’s Safeguarding Policy and Procedure.Fire and Rescue Authority roles are listed in Schedule 1 of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order and as such it is our policy to require all applicants to disclose any criminal convictions (both spent and unspent) including driving offences, cautions, and / or reprimands.Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Authority are committed to the rehabilitation of offenders, as such any positive disclosures will incorporate a reasonable and proportionate response. As a Service and as individuals:We are proud to help.We are honest.We are respectful.We are working together. Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service recognise and celebrate the vast diversity of the local communities that we serve and aspire for this to be reflected within our workforce. We encourage candidates from diverse backgrounds, experience and beliefs, who share our values, to consider working for us.