Rynd Smith, currently Director of Policy and Partnerships at the RTPI, has been appointed Director of Policy, Quality and Development Plans at the Planning Inspectorate in England.
Rynd succeeds Leonora Rozee and will also become Head of Profession for Inspectors. Rynd served the RTPI as Head and then Director of Policy, leading the RTPI’s response to the Planning White Paper and preparations for the Planning Act 2008. He has a longstanding interest in planning reform, planning appeals and development plan examinations.
Between 1999 and 2006 he served as a senior Planning Inspector in Victoria, Australia, chairing major examinations and inquiries. Rynd Smith said: “The Planning Inspectorate lies at the heart of the planning systems for England and Wales, where it stands for sustained excellence. It has a key role to play in the ongoing delivery of planning reform and I look forward to making my contribution there.”
Sara Drake, RTPI Managing Director, said: “We are sorry to lose Rynd but we are pleased his appointment demonstrates the government’s strong commitment to having planning professionals in very senior roles.” Katrine Sporle, Chief Executive of the Planning Inspectorate, said: “Rynd has the experience and expertise we need to ensure that the Planning Inspectorate continues to develop its reputation and standing for quality and impartiality. I look forward to working with him immensely.” Rynd will leave the RTPI at the end of September.
