Spatial Planning - Programme and Engagement Officer

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.

Salary and benefits:

• 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).
• 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.

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.

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.