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- Tasks: Lead major planning applications and tackle complex development issues.
- Company: Join a local authority in vibrant South West London.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working options and competitive pay at £50/hr.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on urban development and represent the Council at public inquiries.
- Qualifications: Degree-qualified town planner with local authority experience and supervisory skills.
- Other info: Initial 12-week contract with potential for extension.
Our client, a local authority based in South West London, is seeking a Principal Planning Officer to join their Development Management team. Reporting to the Area Manager, you will take a lead role managing major and complex planning applications and addressing contentious development control issues. A primary focus will be work related to a Thames Water Project.
As a senior team member, you will represent the Council by preparing and presenting expert evidence at public inquiries, informal hearings, and in court. You will also regularly provide professional advice to Council members, senior officers, applicants, and the public regarding planning applications, development proposals, and related matters.
To succeed in this role, you must be a degree-qualified town planner with recent experience working within a local authority development management team. You should have significant experience with strategic major developments, including working on high-profile applications both pre-application and live cases. Supervisory experience, including signing off delegated applications, is essential. Ideally, you will have London-specific experience and a thorough understanding of current issues affecting planning, regeneration, and local government in London.
This position is initially a 12-week contract, with potential for extension. The rate offered is £50/hr inside IR35. Our client supports hybrid working arrangements.
Principal Planner - DM employer: Osborne Richardson
Contact Detail:
Osborne Richardson Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planner - DM
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific planning policies and regulations in South West London. Understanding local issues and how they impact development will help you demonstrate your expertise during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the local authority and planning sectors. Attend relevant events or webinars to connect with others in the field, as personal recommendations can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience with major developments in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of projects you've managed, particularly those that involved complex planning applications or contentious issues.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your supervisory skills by highlighting any experience you have in leading teams or signing off on delegated applications. This will be crucial in demonstrating your capability for a senior role like this one.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planner - DM
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in local authority development management. Emphasise your work on major planning applications and any supervisory roles you've held.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, address the specific requirements mentioned in the job description. Discuss your experience with strategic major developments and your understanding of current planning issues in London.
Showcase Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your skills related to managing complex planning applications and providing professional advice. Mention any experience you have with public inquiries or hearings, as this is crucial for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application for any errors or inconsistencies. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is essential for a Principal Planning Officer.
How to prepare for a job interview at Osborne Richardson
✨Know Your Planning Legislation
Make sure you brush up on the latest planning legislation and policies relevant to local authorities. Being able to discuss how these laws impact development management will show your expertise and readiness for the role.
✨Prepare for Complex Scenarios
Given the nature of the role, be ready to discuss complex planning applications you've managed in the past. Prepare specific examples that highlight your problem-solving skills and ability to handle contentious issues.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Principal Planner, you'll need to showcase your supervisory experience. Be prepared to talk about how you've led teams, made decisions on delegated applications, and mentored junior staff.
✨Understand Local Context
Familiarise yourself with current planning issues in London, especially those affecting regeneration and local government. Showing that you understand the local context will demonstrate your commitment and suitability for the role.
