Greg Vann
Senior Planning Mentor | Planning All Rounder
Greg has been involved in planning for over 46 years, and has done pretty much everything planners do. He has long been a leader and prominent face in the profession and in that time has formally mentored at least 50 people in our world, and many more informally. It’s now his main way of supporting our profession and its people.
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Years of experience
Education & Affiliations
Greg has been involved in planning for over 46 years, and has done pretty much everything planners do. He has long been a leader and prominent face in the profession and in that time has formally mentored at least 50 people in our world, and many more informally. It’s now his main way of supporting our profession and its people.
Career Highlights
About
Greg has degrees in planning and economics, is a former state President and national councillor of the Planning Institute of Australia. He has worked in State and local government and co-founded Buckley Vann Town Planning over 32 years ago and was instrumental in creating Ethos Urban, the national business that incorporated Buckley Vann.
Among his many and varied experiences as a consultant, he has worked for many governments, state and local, throughout Australia, was director for a wide range of strategic planning projects including ShapingSEQ 2017, the regional plan for south east Queensland and many local Government strategic plans.
He has assessed or applied for a wide range of development projects, undertaken many business case gateway reviews and independent reviews on planning issues and organisations, and spent 38 years giving expert planning evidence across various jurisdictions.
He is a trusted voice in our profession. He has MCed many planning conferences and seminars, presented many, many times on planning topics around Australia and overseas. He is a registered planner (life fellow) of the PIA, chaired the Queensland Government’s Transit Oriented Development Taskforce, is President of Queensland Walks, chair of the Gold Coast Waterways Authority Board and a a former board member of Ethos Urban and Bicycle Queensland.
He has had a career long dedication to advancing the profile and the capability of planning practitioners and helped establish the successful PIA mentoring programs. This dedication has driven his leadership and advocacy and generosity in sharing his knowledge.
It is also what prompted him to create the Urban Mentors Collective. After formally mentoring over 50 people in his long career and many more informally, it is his focus now on how best he can help, and give back to, the great people in our profession.
Testimonial
I have engaged Greg to work with Council’s planning teams over many years. His mentoring has become a key part of our staff development, retention, and career planning strategies. Greg brings a unique ability to provide independent, tailored coaching to professionals at all stages of their careers.He takes the time to build strong relationships through a collaborative and phased mentoring process, helping staff identify goals and address barriers. Staff consistently value the opportunity to discuss challenges with someone outside their management structure.
Greg’s insights help individuals reframe issues, improve self-awareness, and strengthen both relationships and organisational contribution. Many continue to engage with him beyond the initial program for ongoing career support. His work has made our teams more resilient, better aligned, and has demonstrated that we care about our people’s growth — both within Council and in their future careers. I highly recommend Greg as a professional mentor and trusted partner who can help your staff succeed and thrive.
Stephen Patey | Manager
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I've had an ongoing association with Greg Vann for the past 35 years. Our association has morphed as has my career - from new graduate, to emerging professional and into executive roles. I've had the great pleasure to experience Greg's guidance through both formal and informal mentoring arrangements and also as a colleague and friend.
Greg is a natural and seasoned mentor - he affably and authentically shares his experience and observations and, through conversation, encourages reflection and insight as a foundation for personal growth. Having used Greg's mentoring services, to support the development of emerging professionals within my teams, I can attest that Greg's approach resonates in a way that creates lasting benefits for those he engages with.
David Corkill | General Manager Planning
City of Moreton BayTestimonial
Greg provided mentoring to me over a period of about 6 months. Greg was very intuitive and got to know me first before guiding me through my mentoring program. We selected topics that were important and personal to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the knowledge, experience and insights he provided me. He was also very considerate and flexible with accommodating my needs to work in with events going on in my personal life. I learnt a lot from Greg and would highly recommend him as a mentor. Thanks Greg.
Susan Talbot | Senior Strategic Planner
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I have engaged Greg to work with Council’s planning teams over many years. His mentoring has become a key part of our staff development, retention, and career planning strategies. Greg brings a unique ability to provide independent, tailored coaching to professionals at all stages of their careers.He takes the time to build strong relationships through a collaborative and phased mentoring process, helping staff identify goals and address barriers. Staff consistently value the opportunity to discuss challenges with someone outside their management structure.
Greg’s insights help individuals reframe issues, improve self-awareness, and strengthen both relationships and organisational contribution. Many continue to engage with him beyond the initial program for ongoing career support. His work has made our teams more resilient, better aligned, and has demonstrated that we care about our people’s growth — both within Council and in their future careers. I highly recommend Greg as a professional mentor and trusted partner who can help your staff succeed and thrive.
Stephen Patey | Manager
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I've had an ongoing association with Greg Vann for the past 35 years. Our association has morphed as has my career - from new graduate, to emerging professional and into executive roles. I've had the great pleasure to experience Greg's guidance through both formal and informal mentoring arrangements and also as a colleague and friend.
Greg is a natural and seasoned mentor - he affably and authentically shares his experience and observations and, through conversation, encourages reflection and insight as a foundation for personal growth. Having used Greg's mentoring services, to support the development of emerging professionals within my teams, I can attest that Greg's approach resonates in a way that creates lasting benefits for those he engages with.
David Corkill | General Manager Planning
City of Moreton BayTestimonial
Greg provided mentoring to me over a period of about 6 months. Greg was very intuitive and got to know me first before guiding me through my mentoring program. We selected topics that were important and personal to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the knowledge, experience and insights he provided me. He was also very considerate and flexible with accommodating my needs to work in with events going on in my personal life. I learnt a lot from Greg and would highly recommend him as a mentor. Thanks Greg.
Susan Talbot | Senior Strategic Planner
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I have engaged Greg to work with Council’s planning teams over many years. His mentoring has become a key part of our staff development, retention, and career planning strategies. Greg brings a unique ability to provide independent, tailored coaching to professionals at all stages of their careers.He takes the time to build strong relationships through a collaborative and phased mentoring process, helping staff identify goals and address barriers. Staff consistently value the opportunity to discuss challenges with someone outside their management structure.
Greg’s insights help individuals reframe issues, improve self-awareness, and strengthen both relationships and organisational contribution. Many continue to engage with him beyond the initial program for ongoing career support. His work has made our teams more resilient, better aligned, and has demonstrated that we care about our people’s growth — both within Council and in their future careers. I highly recommend Greg as a professional mentor and trusted partner who can help your staff succeed and thrive.
Stephen Patey | Manager
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I've had an ongoing association with Greg Vann for the past 35 years. Our association has morphed as has my career - from new graduate, to emerging professional and into executive roles. I've had the great pleasure to experience Greg's guidance through both formal and informal mentoring arrangements and also as a colleague and friend.
Greg is a natural and seasoned mentor - he affably and authentically shares his experience and observations and, through conversation, encourages reflection and insight as a foundation for personal growth. Having used Greg's mentoring services, to support the development of emerging professionals within my teams, I can attest that Greg's approach resonates in a way that creates lasting benefits for those he engages with.
David Corkill | General Manager Planning
City of Moreton BayTestimonial
Greg provided mentoring to me over a period of about 6 months. Greg was very intuitive and got to know me first before guiding me through my mentoring program. We selected topics that were important and personal to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the knowledge, experience and insights he provided me. He was also very considerate and flexible with accommodating my needs to work in with events going on in my personal life. I learnt a lot from Greg and would highly recommend him as a mentor. Thanks Greg.
Susan Talbot | Senior Strategic Planner
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I have engaged Greg to work with Council’s planning teams over many years. His mentoring has become a key part of our staff development, retention, and career planning strategies. Greg brings a unique ability to provide independent, tailored coaching to professionals at all stages of their careers.He takes the time to build strong relationships through a collaborative and phased mentoring process, helping staff identify goals and address barriers. Staff consistently value the opportunity to discuss challenges with someone outside their management structure.
Greg’s insights help individuals reframe issues, improve self-awareness, and strengthen both relationships and organisational contribution. Many continue to engage with him beyond the initial program for ongoing career support. His work has made our teams more resilient, better aligned, and has demonstrated that we care about our people’s growth — both within Council and in their future careers. I highly recommend Greg as a professional mentor and trusted partner who can help your staff succeed and thrive.
Stephen Patey | Manager
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I've had an ongoing association with Greg Vann for the past 35 years. Our association has morphed as has my career - from new graduate, to emerging professional and into executive roles. I've had the great pleasure to experience Greg's guidance through both formal and informal mentoring arrangements and also as a colleague and friend.
Greg is a natural and seasoned mentor - he affably and authentically shares his experience and observations and, through conversation, encourages reflection and insight as a foundation for personal growth. Having used Greg's mentoring services, to support the development of emerging professionals within my teams, I can attest that Greg's approach resonates in a way that creates lasting benefits for those he engages with.
David Corkill | General Manager Planning
City of Moreton BayTestimonial
Greg provided mentoring to me over a period of about 6 months. Greg was very intuitive and got to know me first before guiding me through my mentoring program. We selected topics that were important and personal to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the knowledge, experience and insights he provided me. He was also very considerate and flexible with accommodating my needs to work in with events going on in my personal life. I learnt a lot from Greg and would highly recommend him as a mentor. Thanks Greg.
Susan Talbot | Senior Strategic Planner
Sunshine Coast Council
Testimonial
I have engaged Greg to work with Council’s planning teams over many years. His mentoring has become a key part of our staff development, retention, and career planning strategies. Greg brings a unique ability to provide independent, tailored coaching to professionals at all stages of their careers.He takes the time to build strong relationships through a collaborative and phased mentoring process, helping staff identify goals and address barriers. Staff consistently value the opportunity to discuss challenges with someone outside their management structure.
Greg’s insights help individuals reframe issues, improve self-awareness, and strengthen both relationships and organisational contribution. Many continue to engage with him beyond the initial program for ongoing career support. His work has made our teams more resilient, better aligned, and has demonstrated that we care about our people’s growth — both within Council and in their future careers. I highly recommend Greg as a professional mentor and trusted partner who can help your staff succeed and thrive.
Stephen Patey | Manager
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I've had an ongoing association with Greg Vann for the past 35 years. Our association has morphed as has my career - from new graduate, to emerging professional and into executive roles. I've had the great pleasure to experience Greg's guidance through both formal and informal mentoring arrangements and also as a colleague and friend.
Greg is a natural and seasoned mentor - he affably and authentically shares his experience and observations and, through conversation, encourages reflection and insight as a foundation for personal growth. Having used Greg's mentoring services, to support the development of emerging professionals within my teams, I can attest that Greg's approach resonates in a way that creates lasting benefits for those he engages with.
David Corkill | General Manager Planning
City of Moreton BayTestimonial
Greg provided mentoring to me over a period of about 6 months. Greg was very intuitive and got to know me first before guiding me through my mentoring program. We selected topics that were important and personal to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the knowledge, experience and insights he provided me. He was also very considerate and flexible with accommodating my needs to work in with events going on in my personal life. I learnt a lot from Greg and would highly recommend him as a mentor. Thanks Greg.
Susan Talbot | Senior Strategic Planner
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I have engaged Greg to work with Council’s planning teams over many years. His mentoring has become a key part of our staff development, retention, and career planning strategies. Greg brings a unique ability to provide independent, tailored coaching to professionals at all stages of their careers.He takes the time to build strong relationships through a collaborative and phased mentoring process, helping staff identify goals and address barriers. Staff consistently value the opportunity to discuss challenges with someone outside their management structure.
Greg’s insights help individuals reframe issues, improve self-awareness, and strengthen both relationships and organisational contribution. Many continue to engage with him beyond the initial program for ongoing career support. His work has made our teams more resilient, better aligned, and has demonstrated that we care about our people’s growth — both within Council and in their future careers. I highly recommend Greg as a professional mentor and trusted partner who can help your staff succeed and thrive.
Stephen Patey | Manager
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I've had an ongoing association with Greg Vann for the past 35 years. Our association has morphed as has my career - from new graduate, to emerging professional and into executive roles. I've had the great pleasure to experience Greg's guidance through both formal and informal mentoring arrangements and also as a colleague and friend.
Greg is a natural and seasoned mentor - he affably and authentically shares his experience and observations and, through conversation, encourages reflection and insight as a foundation for personal growth. Having used Greg's mentoring services, to support the development of emerging professionals within my teams, I can attest that Greg's approach resonates in a way that creates lasting benefits for those he engages with.
David Corkill | General Manager Planning
City of Moreton BayTestimonial
Greg provided mentoring to me over a period of about 6 months. Greg was very intuitive and got to know me first before guiding me through my mentoring program. We selected topics that were important and personal to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the knowledge, experience and insights he provided me. He was also very considerate and flexible with accommodating my needs to work in with events going on in my personal life. I learnt a lot from Greg and would highly recommend him as a mentor. Thanks Greg.
Susan Talbot | Senior Strategic Planner
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I have engaged Greg to work with Council’s planning teams over many years. His mentoring has become a key part of our staff development, retention, and career planning strategies. Greg brings a unique ability to provide independent, tailored coaching to professionals at all stages of their careers.He takes the time to build strong relationships through a collaborative and phased mentoring process, helping staff identify goals and address barriers. Staff consistently value the opportunity to discuss challenges with someone outside their management structure.
Greg’s insights help individuals reframe issues, improve self-awareness, and strengthen both relationships and organisational contribution. Many continue to engage with him beyond the initial program for ongoing career support. His work has made our teams more resilient, better aligned, and has demonstrated that we care about our people’s growth — both within Council and in their future careers. I highly recommend Greg as a professional mentor and trusted partner who can help your staff succeed and thrive.
Stephen Patey | Manager
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I've had an ongoing association with Greg Vann for the past 35 years. Our association has morphed as has my career - from new graduate, to emerging professional and into executive roles. I've had the great pleasure to experience Greg's guidance through both formal and informal mentoring arrangements and also as a colleague and friend.
Greg is a natural and seasoned mentor - he affably and authentically shares his experience and observations and, through conversation, encourages reflection and insight as a foundation for personal growth. Having used Greg's mentoring services, to support the development of emerging professionals within my teams, I can attest that Greg's approach resonates in a way that creates lasting benefits for those he engages with.
David Corkill | General Manager Planning
City of Moreton BayTestimonial
Greg provided mentoring to me over a period of about 6 months. Greg was very intuitive and got to know me first before guiding me through my mentoring program. We selected topics that were important and personal to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the knowledge, experience and insights he provided me. He was also very considerate and flexible with accommodating my needs to work in with events going on in my personal life. I learnt a lot from Greg and would highly recommend him as a mentor. Thanks Greg.
Susan Talbot | Senior Strategic Planner
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I have engaged Greg to work with Council’s planning teams over many years. His mentoring has become a key part of our staff development, retention, and career planning strategies. Greg brings a unique ability to provide independent, tailored coaching to professionals at all stages of their careers.He takes the time to build strong relationships through a collaborative and phased mentoring process, helping staff identify goals and address barriers. Staff consistently value the opportunity to discuss challenges with someone outside their management structure.
Greg’s insights help individuals reframe issues, improve self-awareness, and strengthen both relationships and organisational contribution. Many continue to engage with him beyond the initial program for ongoing career support. His work has made our teams more resilient, better aligned, and has demonstrated that we care about our people’s growth — both within Council and in their future careers. I highly recommend Greg as a professional mentor and trusted partner who can help your staff succeed and thrive.
Stephen Patey | Manager
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I've had an ongoing association with Greg Vann for the past 35 years. Our association has morphed as has my career - from new graduate, to emerging professional and into executive roles. I've had the great pleasure to experience Greg's guidance through both formal and informal mentoring arrangements and also as a colleague and friend.
Greg is a natural and seasoned mentor - he affably and authentically shares his experience and observations and, through conversation, encourages reflection and insight as a foundation for personal growth. Having used Greg's mentoring services, to support the development of emerging professionals within my teams, I can attest that Greg's approach resonates in a way that creates lasting benefits for those he engages with.
David Corkill | General Manager Planning
City of Moreton BayTestimonial
Greg provided mentoring to me over a period of about 6 months. Greg was very intuitive and got to know me first before guiding me through my mentoring program. We selected topics that were important and personal to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the knowledge, experience and insights he provided me. He was also very considerate and flexible with accommodating my needs to work in with events going on in my personal life. I learnt a lot from Greg and would highly recommend him as a mentor. Thanks Greg.
Susan Talbot | Senior Strategic Planner
Sunshine Coast Council
Testimonial
I have engaged Greg to work with Council’s planning teams over many years. His mentoring has become a key part of our staff development, retention, and career planning strategies. Greg brings a unique ability to provide independent, tailored coaching to professionals at all stages of their careers.He takes the time to build strong relationships through a collaborative and phased mentoring process, helping staff identify goals and address barriers. Staff consistently value the opportunity to discuss challenges with someone outside their management structure.
Greg’s insights help individuals reframe issues, improve self-awareness, and strengthen both relationships and organisational contribution. Many continue to engage with him beyond the initial program for ongoing career support. His work has made our teams more resilient, better aligned, and has demonstrated that we care about our people’s growth — both within Council and in their future careers. I highly recommend Greg as a professional mentor and trusted partner who can help your staff succeed and thrive.
Stephen Patey | Manager
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I've had an ongoing association with Greg Vann for the past 35 years. Our association has morphed as has my career - from new graduate, to emerging professional and into executive roles. I've had the great pleasure to experience Greg's guidance through both formal and informal mentoring arrangements and also as a colleague and friend.
Greg is a natural and seasoned mentor - he affably and authentically shares his experience and observations and, through conversation, encourages reflection and insight as a foundation for personal growth. Having used Greg's mentoring services, to support the development of emerging professionals within my teams, I can attest that Greg's approach resonates in a way that creates lasting benefits for those he engages with.
David Corkill | General Manager Planning
City of Moreton BayTestimonial
Greg provided mentoring to me over a period of about 6 months. Greg was very intuitive and got to know me first before guiding me through my mentoring program. We selected topics that were important and personal to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the knowledge, experience and insights he provided me. He was also very considerate and flexible with accommodating my needs to work in with events going on in my personal life. I learnt a lot from Greg and would highly recommend him as a mentor. Thanks Greg.
Susan Talbot | Senior Strategic Planner
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I have engaged Greg to work with Council’s planning teams over many years. His mentoring has become a key part of our staff development, retention, and career planning strategies. Greg brings a unique ability to provide independent, tailored coaching to professionals at all stages of their careers.He takes the time to build strong relationships through a collaborative and phased mentoring process, helping staff identify goals and address barriers. Staff consistently value the opportunity to discuss challenges with someone outside their management structure.
Greg’s insights help individuals reframe issues, improve self-awareness, and strengthen both relationships and organisational contribution. Many continue to engage with him beyond the initial program for ongoing career support. His work has made our teams more resilient, better aligned, and has demonstrated that we care about our people’s growth — both within Council and in their future careers. I highly recommend Greg as a professional mentor and trusted partner who can help your staff succeed and thrive.
Stephen Patey | Manager
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I've had an ongoing association with Greg Vann for the past 35 years. Our association has morphed as has my career - from new graduate, to emerging professional and into executive roles. I've had the great pleasure to experience Greg's guidance through both formal and informal mentoring arrangements and also as a colleague and friend.
Greg is a natural and seasoned mentor - he affably and authentically shares his experience and observations and, through conversation, encourages reflection and insight as a foundation for personal growth. Having used Greg's mentoring services, to support the development of emerging professionals within my teams, I can attest that Greg's approach resonates in a way that creates lasting benefits for those he engages with.
David Corkill | General Manager Planning
City of Moreton BayTestimonial
Greg provided mentoring to me over a period of about 6 months. Greg was very intuitive and got to know me first before guiding me through my mentoring program. We selected topics that were important and personal to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the knowledge, experience and insights he provided me. He was also very considerate and flexible with accommodating my needs to work in with events going on in my personal life. I learnt a lot from Greg and would highly recommend him as a mentor. Thanks Greg.
Susan Talbot | Senior Strategic Planner
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I have engaged Greg to work with Council’s planning teams over many years. His mentoring has become a key part of our staff development, retention, and career planning strategies. Greg brings a unique ability to provide independent, tailored coaching to professionals at all stages of their careers.He takes the time to build strong relationships through a collaborative and phased mentoring process, helping staff identify goals and address barriers. Staff consistently value the opportunity to discuss challenges with someone outside their management structure.
Greg’s insights help individuals reframe issues, improve self-awareness, and strengthen both relationships and organisational contribution. Many continue to engage with him beyond the initial program for ongoing career support. His work has made our teams more resilient, better aligned, and has demonstrated that we care about our people’s growth — both within Council and in their future careers. I highly recommend Greg as a professional mentor and trusted partner who can help your staff succeed and thrive.
Stephen Patey | Manager
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I've had an ongoing association with Greg Vann for the past 35 years. Our association has morphed as has my career - from new graduate, to emerging professional and into executive roles. I've had the great pleasure to experience Greg's guidance through both formal and informal mentoring arrangements and also as a colleague and friend.
Greg is a natural and seasoned mentor - he affably and authentically shares his experience and observations and, through conversation, encourages reflection and insight as a foundation for personal growth. Having used Greg's mentoring services, to support the development of emerging professionals within my teams, I can attest that Greg's approach resonates in a way that creates lasting benefits for those he engages with.
David Corkill | General Manager Planning
City of Moreton BayTestimonial
Greg provided mentoring to me over a period of about 6 months. Greg was very intuitive and got to know me first before guiding me through my mentoring program. We selected topics that were important and personal to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the knowledge, experience and insights he provided me. He was also very considerate and flexible with accommodating my needs to work in with events going on in my personal life. I learnt a lot from Greg and would highly recommend him as a mentor. Thanks Greg.
Susan Talbot | Senior Strategic Planner
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I have engaged Greg to work with Council’s planning teams over many years. His mentoring has become a key part of our staff development, retention, and career planning strategies. Greg brings a unique ability to provide independent, tailored coaching to professionals at all stages of their careers.He takes the time to build strong relationships through a collaborative and phased mentoring process, helping staff identify goals and address barriers. Staff consistently value the opportunity to discuss challenges with someone outside their management structure.
Greg’s insights help individuals reframe issues, improve self-awareness, and strengthen both relationships and organisational contribution. Many continue to engage with him beyond the initial program for ongoing career support. His work has made our teams more resilient, better aligned, and has demonstrated that we care about our people’s growth — both within Council and in their future careers. I highly recommend Greg as a professional mentor and trusted partner who can help your staff succeed and thrive.
Stephen Patey | Manager
Sunshine Coast CouncilTestimonial
I've had an ongoing association with Greg Vann for the past 35 years. Our association has morphed as has my career - from new graduate, to emerging professional and into executive roles. I've had the great pleasure to experience Greg's guidance through both formal and informal mentoring arrangements and also as a colleague and friend.
Greg is a natural and seasoned mentor - he affably and authentically shares his experience and observations and, through conversation, encourages reflection and insight as a foundation for personal growth. Having used Greg's mentoring services, to support the development of emerging professionals within my teams, I can attest that Greg's approach resonates in a way that creates lasting benefits for those he engages with.
David Corkill | General Manager Planning
City of Moreton BayTestimonial
Greg provided mentoring to me over a period of about 6 months. Greg was very intuitive and got to know me first before guiding me through my mentoring program. We selected topics that were important and personal to me, and I thoroughly enjoyed the knowledge, experience and insights he provided me. He was also very considerate and flexible with accommodating my needs to work in with events going on in my personal life. I learnt a lot from Greg and would highly recommend him as a mentor. Thanks Greg.
Susan Talbot | Senior Strategic Planner
Sunshine Coast Council
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