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- Tasks: Lead a dedicated team to deliver an innovative Local Plan for Ribble Valley.
- Company: Ribble Valley Council, pioneering planning reform in a unique setting.
- Benefits: Flexible working hours, generous leave, pension scheme, and training opportunities.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team and shape the future of planning in Ribble Valley.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in planning while developing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified planning professional with RTPI membership and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Are you ready to take the lead on something genuinely pioneering? Then this is your moment… As Ribble Valley Council transitions to the new plan‑making system, we are seeking an experienced planning professional to lead a small, dedicated team in delivering our new Local Plan. This is a unique, career‑defining opportunity to work at the cutting edge of planning reform, driving real impact in a truly exceptional setting.
We are looking for a qualified planning professional with full RTPI membership and substantial knowledge and experience in planning policy, particularly in preparing robust and sound Local Plans. Strong communication skills and the ability to confidently lead, support and develop the Planning Policy team are essential.
Join us to receive a host of benefits such as:
- Flexible working hours (flexitime scheme in operation)
- Generous leave entitlement
- Occupational pension scheme
- Training/development opportunities
For informal enquiries about the post please contact our Director of Economic Development and Planning, Nicola Hopkins at Nicola.Hopkins@ribblevalley.gov.uk or our Head of Strategic Planning and Housing, Erika Eden-Porter at Erika.Eden-Porter@ribblevalley.gov.uk.
Closing date: Monday 20 April 2026
Planning Policy Lead employer: Brentwood Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Brentwood Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Policy Lead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the planning sector, especially those who have experience with Local Plans. Attend industry events or webinars to make connections and learn about potential opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your previous work in planning policy. Include examples of successful projects or plans you've contributed to, as this will demonstrate your capability to lead the Planning Policy team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! When you get the chance for an interview, be ready to discuss your vision for the Local Plan and how you can drive change. Confidence is key, so rehearse your points and be prepared to answer questions about your leadership style.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We want to see your application come through our platform, as it helps us keep track of all candidates. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our team at Ribble Valley Council!
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Policy Lead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Planning: When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for planning shine through! We want to see how your experience aligns with our mission to create a robust Local Plan. Share specific examples of your past work that demonstrate your commitment to planning policy.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to fit the role of Planning Policy Lead. Highlight your RTPI membership and any relevant experience in leading teams or projects. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their skills with what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity in applications. Use straightforward language and get to the point quickly. This shows us that you can communicate effectively, which is crucial for leading our Planning Policy team. Avoid jargon unless it’s necessary!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it makes the whole process smoother for everyone involved.
How to prepare for a job interview at Brentwood Borough Council
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Make sure you brush up on the latest planning policies and reforms, especially those relevant to Local Plans. Being able to discuss these confidently will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely passionate about the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Think about specific challenges you faced and how you supported your team through them. This will demonstrate your ability to lead and develop the Planning Policy team effectively.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Strong communication skills are essential for this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. You might even want to do a mock interview with a friend to get comfortable with discussing your experience and ideas.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions to ask at the end of your interview. This could be about the council's vision for the new Local Plan or how they measure success in their planning initiatives. It shows your interest and engagement with the role.