Spatial Planning - Programme and Engagement Officer in Birmingham

West Midlands Combined Authority is delivering on an ambitious devolution agenda, and we are now seeking a Programme and Engagement Officer to support the development of the region's first Spatial Development Strategy (SDS), a new statutory planning framework that will guide long-term growth and development across the West Midlands. Reporting into the Planning and Policy team within the Strategy, Economy and Net Zero Directorate, the Programme and Engagement Officer will support the design, coordination, and delivery of the SDS over a three-year programme. This includes responsibility for programme management, stakeholder engagement, and contributions to policy development and evidence gathering. This is a unique opportunity to play a key role in shaping strategic planning at a regional level, working closely with local authorities, stakeholders, and communities to deliver a plan that reflects the shared aspirations of the region.

What you will be doing:

• Oversee the SDS programme schedule, tracking progress and reporting on key deliverables.
• Coordinate internal and external working groups aligned to specific policy themes.
• Manage SDS programme dependencies within broader WMCA corporate and strategic frameworks.
• Contribute to the commissioning and review of technical evidence to support plan development.
• Lead the coordination of the West Midlands SDS Issues and Options paper.
• Work collaboratively with local authorities and other partners on programme delivery and engagement activity.
• Support the training of external stakeholders on the planning system and SDS process.
• Maintain accurate and timely reporting for both internal and external audiences.
• Use digital tools to manage project workflows, timelines, and milestones.
• Plan and deliver engagement activity including workshops, public consultations, and briefings for elected members and key stakeholders.
• Manage consultation software and update SDS-related content on the WMCA website.
• Provide additional support to the wider team in policy development and evidence base tasks as required.
• Support the implementation of robust systems to monitor performance, evaluate impact, and ensure programme compliance.

What's essential:

• Experience managing or supporting complex programmes or projects.
• Confidence working with a wide range of stakeholders, including senior officers and elected members.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence and collaborate effectively.
• Familiarity with digital tools for project management (e.g. MS Project) and consultation platforms.
• Experience supporting or delivering engagement activity (e.g. public events, stakeholder workshops, member briefings).
• Understanding or experience of the planning and development sector, particularly policy-related work.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage multiple priorities under pressure.
• A methodical approach with excellent organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, and confidence in digital literacy.
• Educated to degree level in Town Planning or a related discipline.
• Commitment to professional growth and ongoing learning.

Location: The location for this role is Summer Lane with at least 2 days a week spent in the office.

How to apply:

Applying for a role with WMCA is straightforward. Follow these steps to get started:

• Create your Careers Account.
• Register with your name, email address, and a password.
• Build your Profile.
• Upload your CV to help populate your career and education details.
• Write your Supporting Statement. Make sure to address each of the required essential criteria.
• Submit your application. Do one final check and once complete, click submit.

Anonymised Applications: Your uploaded CV won't be visible after submission. Our process is anonymised, and only the information in your profile is used for shortlisting. Be thorough in each section; it's your chance to showcase your skills and experience.

Using Artificial Intelligence (AI): We cannot stop anyone from using AI to help write application content. Used right, it can be a great tool. If you choose to use AI, then use it as a helper rather than relying on it wholly to write your application. Applications that rely too heavily on AI may be rejected during shortlisting.

Reasonable adjustments: If you have an accessibility need, disability, or condition that means you might require changes to the application or recruitment process, please get in touch with our Recruitment Team.

Salary and benefits: We advertise salary ranges, with new appointments typically starting at the lowest salary point. In exceptional cases, the salary point may be adjusted to secure the best candidate. This approach allows for potential year-on-year salary increases, offering progression and appropriate rewards to employees. Requests for salaries above the maximum advertised range will not be considered.

We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes:

• Local Government Pension Scheme (one of the most generous pension schemes in the UK).
• 28 days paid annual leave (with an option to purchase more), giving you ample time to relax.
• Ethical saving options and healthcare plans.
• Discounted gym membership.
• An option to buy a bicycle, including e-bikes and adapted pedal cycles, at a discounted rate.
• 3 days of paid leave each year to volunteer.
• Interest-free financing through SmartTech to buy the latest technology.
• Discounted shopping with over 2,000 big-name retailers, and more.

Why join WMCA? WMCA is laser-focused on improving the West Midlands, bringing economic growth, jobs, homes, and better journeys to the region. We target local needs where it matters most, ensuring everyone has a job that pays well and has access to safe and affordable places they can call home. We put people and place at the heart of everything we do, working hand in hand with our partners to direct funding where it's needed most. What you do really matters. Your expertise will help make a big difference, improving people's lives every day.

Creating an inclusive workplace: WMCA holds diversity accreditations, such as the RACE Code Quality Mark, Armed Forces Covenant (Gold status) and has been recognised as one of the Inclusive Top 50 Employers and The Times Top 50 Employers for Women. We're a Disability Confident Employer with Leader status, committed to interviewing applicants with disabilities who meet all the essential role criteria. We recognise that certain groups, such as women and people of colour, may be less likely to apply for roles if they feel they do not meet all the requirements. However, we encourage individuals who are passionate about the role and want to make a difference to still apply. We value potential and encourage applicants to highlight their skills, including transferable ones, even if they don't fit the traditional 'perfect candidate' mould. We gladly consider part-time, flexible, and job share arrangements, so please don't let these factors deter you from applying.

Right to Work in the UK: Proof of Right to Work in the UK will be required for all applicants in accordance with UK Home Office requirements, before any employment offer can be confirmed. Non-UK applicants (excluding Ireland) would be required to hold a relevant Visa from the UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI).