At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic placemaking to create vibrant, sustainable communities in Barnet.
- Company: Barnet Council, dedicated to improving local communities and services.
- Benefits: 31 days annual leave, flexible working options, and extensive training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a supportive team committed to inclusivity and community welfare.
- Why this job: Shape the future of London’s largest borough and make a real impact.
- Qualifications: Experience in placemaking, project management, and partnership building.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This position is open to internal candidates only. Any applications received from external candidates will not be considered and will be automatically rejected.
Important Information for Current Barnet Council Employees: Where possible, employees who have access to Oracle are encouraged to apply via the Opportunity Marketplace (Internal Career Site). This helps to ensure applications are correctly identified as internal and avoids potential delays during the recruitment process.
About Barnet Council: Barnet is a borough with much to be proud of. Our excellent schools, vibrant town centres, vast green spaces and diverse communities all help make it a great place to live and work. As a council we want to build on these strengths as we move into the future. We are growing and developing as an organisation to meet the challenges facing our borough and we are committed to working with partner organisations and residents to make Barnet even better. As an organisation, our staff are committed to Our Values: Learning to Improve, Caring, Inclusive, Collaborative – which drive everything we do.
About the role: Barnet is undergoing ambitious growth, with the Local Plan focusing on new housing and investment across its network of town centres and key growth areas. This is a unique opportunity to shape sustainable, mixed-use communities that revitalise high streets, support economic development and deliver lasting environmental, health, and social benefits. We are seeking an experienced and driven professional to lead strategic placemaking across major growth areas including Colindale, Burnt Oak, North Finchley and Edgware. You will work collaboratively with stakeholders to develop shared visions, while leading complex partnerships – including BIDs – to support the delivery of impactful growth programmes. A key aspect of the role will be translating strategic objectives into practical, deliverable initiatives that create lasting benefits for residents, businesses and communities, ensuring growth is inclusive, sustainable and responsive to local needs.
About you: You will take a lead role in developing and delivering area-based plans, managing multidisciplinary teams and advisors, and overseeing the delivery of regeneration projects from a placemaking perspective. This includes securing external funding, negotiating with developers, commissioning consultants, and ensuring strong governance, risk management, and programme delivery. Working within the Placemaking Framework, you will build strong internal and external partnerships, influencing senior decision-making and ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget and to a high standard. This is a pivotal role in shaping the future of London’s largest borough - creating thriving, sustainable communities for residents and businesses for decades to come.
What we offer: 31 days annual leave, plus public and bank holidays; Access to the Local Government Pension Scheme, which provides a valuable guaranteed income in your retirement together with security for your dependents; Work-life balance options may include hybrid working, flexitime, job share, home working, part-time; A vast range of lifestyle discounts from major retailers, supermarkets, energy suppliers and more; Broad range of payroll benefits including cycle to work, eye care vouchers, travel and gym membership; Excellent training and development opportunities; Employee well-being training programs including confidential employee assistance.
How to apply: Read the job description and person specification before clicking ‘Apply’ to commence the online application form. If you would like any further information about the role before applying, please contact Reeta.Hirani@barnet.gov.uk.
All posts with the council are subject to a probationary period of six months, during which time you will be required to demonstrate to the council satisfaction your suitability for the position in which you will be employed. Due to the high number of applications that are received for some posts we may close vacancies before the stated closing date if sufficient number of applications are received. Therefore, please apply as soon as possible. Please ensure you regularly check the email account (including JUNK MAIL folders) that you use to submit your application, as any further communication regarding your application will be sent electronically. Should you not hear from us within four working weeks of the closing date for this post, then regretfully in this instance, you have not been shortlisted.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Strategic Placemaking Lead (1 Year FTC) (Internal candidates only) in London
✨Get Engaged in Local Politics
Dive into your local council meetings or community boards. These spaces are packed with people who are already in the public sector and might have insider tips on upcoming temporary roles. Plus, you can connect directly with key decision-makers.
✨Stay Alert for Seasonal Recruitment
Many public sector jobs ramp up during certain times of the year, especially around election seasons or local budget planning periods. Keep your eyes peeled for recruitment drives during these windows, as they're prime times for temporary positions.
✨Leverage Online Job Portals
Don’t forget to check government job boards or websites like the local council's site for temporary postings. This is where many roles first get advertised, and applying directly here can speed things up.
✨Tap Into Your University Resources
If you're at university, make the most of your career services to discover opportunities in the public sector. They often have connections with local government employers who are looking for temporary staff and can help you polish your approach.
We think you need these skills to ace Strategic Placemaking Lead (1 Year FTC) (Internal candidates only) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Emphasise your understanding of public policy:In your application, make sure to highlight any knowledge or experience you have related to public policy, governance or community engagement. Show us how you can contribute to the public sector’s mission, especially if you've worked on relevant projects or initiatives before!
Tailor your CV to the sector's expectations:When crafting your CV, focus on including experiences that showcase your ability to work within government structures or similar environments. Use clear, concise language and consider adding any volunteer work or internships that reflect your commitment to public service.
Show flexibility and willingness to learn:Since this is a temporary role, it’s crucial to convey your adaptability and eagerness to pick up new skills quickly. In your cover letter, let us know how you plan to make the most of this short-term experience and what you hope to learn from it.
Include relevant certificates and training:If you've completed any training or have certifications that are relevant to the role (like public administration, project management, or data analysis), don't forget to mention them. These can really make you stand out in the application process!
How to prepare for a job interview at Borough of Barnet
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Public Service
In the government and public sector, showing that you're genuinely passionate about serving the community is key. Get ready to share examples where you've contributed to social good or tackled community issues, as this will resonate with interviewers from Borough of Barnet.
✨Prepare for Policy and Regulatory Questions
Expect questions about policies, regulations, or recently implemented government initiatives. Brush up on the latest news relating to public sector developments—being informed will help you demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running, especially in a temporary role.
✨Flexibility is Your Best Friend
Since this is a temporary role, emphasise your ability to adapt quickly. Share examples where you've successfully taken on new challenges or adjusted to different team dynamics, that'll show Borough of Barnet that you’re reliable and can effectively support various projects without a long onboarding process.
✨Prepare to Showcase Teamwork Skills
In the public sector, collaboration is vital. Be ready to discuss past experiences working in teams, especially in diverse environments. Highlight how you've contributed positively to group settings—this could really set you apart from other candidates in this temporary role.
