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- Tasks: Lead complex planning applications and support a dynamic team in Richmond.
- Company: Join Richmond, London's most attractive borough with vibrant culture and historic charm.
- Benefits: Enjoy 40 days annual leave, flexible working, and a generous pension plan.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on urban development while preserving Richmond's unique character.
- Qualifications: RTPI accredited planning qualification and experience in Development Management required.
- Other info: We value diversity and are committed to inclusive recruitment practices.
The predicted salary is between 49939 - 60515 £ per year.
Salary Range: From £49,939-£60,515 Depending on Skills and Experience
Permanent, Full time
Location: Hybrid with Twickenham Civic Centre
Objective of Role: Richmond is arguably London’s most attractive borough with the River Thames running for over 10 miles through the borough, linking Hampton Court Palace, Richmond and Twickenham Town Centres and Kew Gardens with London. Richmond boasts Royal Parks and open spaces, historic houses, vibrant town centres bursting with life, as well as being the home of English rugby. With interesting major developments on the horizon, we are expanding the Strategic Applications Team at Richmond and have an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic Principal Planning Officer to join the Team, where you can broaden your experience in a unique environment.
About the Role: The main duties include dealing with complex applications, pre-application submissions, screening and scoping opinion requests, appeals as required, providing senior level support, signing off reports and assisting the Strategic Applications Manager in leading the team. With excellent communication skills you’ll assume responsibility for effective negotiation and resolution, to ensure outcomes that reflect the Council’s wider positive objectives and policies of promoting high quality and innovative development, while conserving the historic character of the Borough.
Essential Qualifications, Skills and Experience: If you are a highly motivated individual with a creative approach to problem solving alongside a “can-do” attitude to improvements in service delivery, this could be the role for you! The ideal candidate will hold an RTPI accredited planning qualification and be able to demonstrate significant knowledge and experience of Development Management. You will have excellent time management and communication skills and be a team player, who can motivate people within a busy and high performing team.
Contact: If you would like to discuss the posts, please contact.
Closing Date: Friday 6th April 2025
Shortlisting Date: w/c 7th April 2025
Interview Date: w/c 21st April 2025
We may close this vacancy early once a sufficient number of applications has been received. Please submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.
Richmond & Wandsworth Better Service Partnership are committed to making our recruitment practices as inclusive as possible for everyone. We are committed to promoting equality and diversity and developing a culture that values differences, recognising that employees from a variety of backgrounds bring important and positive contributions to the Councils and can improve the way we deliver services.
Disability Confident Employer: We are proud to be a Disability Confident employer. If you require any reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment and selection process, please let us know. We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people/vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Some posts may be exempted under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and as such appointment to these posts will be conditional upon the receipt of a satisfactory response to a check of police records via Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
We offer a wide range of benefits designed to attract, develop, and reward our employees such as 40 days annual leave (including Bank Holidays), flexible working and a generous pension plan.
Principal Planning Officer employer: London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
Contact Detail:
London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Richmond's unique planning challenges and opportunities. Understanding the local context, including its historic character and major developments, will help you demonstrate your knowledge during discussions and interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the planning sector, especially those who have experience in Development Management. Engaging with current employees or attending relevant events can provide insights into the team dynamics and expectations at Richmond.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your negotiation and communication skills. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully resolved complex issues or led a team, as these will be crucial for the Principal Planning Officer role.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on current planning policies and innovations in the field. Being knowledgeable about recent changes and trends will not only enhance your application but also position you as a forward-thinking candidate during interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to grasp the responsibilities and qualifications required for the Principal Planning Officer position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experience align with these requirements.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your experience in Development Management and any relevant projects you've worked on. Use specific examples to demonstrate your problem-solving abilities and communication skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a personalised cover letter that reflects your enthusiasm for the role and the organisation. Address how you can contribute to the Strategic Applications Team and support the Council's objectives.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at London Borough of Richmond upon Thames and London Borough of Wandsworth
✨Showcase Your Planning Expertise
Make sure to highlight your RTPI accredited planning qualification and any relevant experience in Development Management. Be prepared to discuss specific projects you've worked on, particularly those that involved complex applications or innovative solutions.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
As a Principal Planning Officer, excellent communication is key. Prepare examples of how you've effectively negotiated outcomes or resolved conflicts in previous roles. This will show your ability to represent the Council's objectives while maintaining positive relationships.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Since this role involves leading a team, be ready to discuss your experience in motivating and managing others. Share instances where you contributed to a high-performing team environment, showcasing your teamwork and leadership skills.
✨Understand the Local Context
Familiarise yourself with Richmond's unique characteristics and upcoming developments. Showing knowledge about the borough's historic character and how it influences planning decisions will demonstrate your commitment and suitability for the role.
