At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape Bristol's future by developing innovative planning policies and managing exciting projects.
- Company: Join the dynamic Bristol City Council, a leader in local planning.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team committed to creating a sustainable city.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on Bristol's development while growing your skills.
- Qualifications: Degree in town planning or related field with project management experience.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 42000 £ per year.
Full Time, Permanent
Join Bristol City Council and help shape the future of Bristol. Bristol is among the first authorities to deliver a local plan under the new system, in parallel with shaping the emerging West of England Spatial Development Strategy and overhauling the existing supplementary guidance suite. We welcome innovation, critical thinking and a fast‑paced approach to plan‑making in a busy core city environment. We are looking for a planning policy and or development management specialist professional to join our Planning Policy team and work on the new framework of planning policy for Bristol. This is an exciting opportunity to play a leading role as we launch our new system local plan. You will play an important role in shaping our new framework of local planning policy as we review the local plan alongside a new spatial development strategy that contribute to Bristol City Council's ambition of creating a more sustainable, inclusive and prosperous city. If you share our passion for place‑making and you’d like to join a brilliant team in a great city with lots of fascinating planning work, and one where planners are valued and supported, we’d like to hear from you. We welcome innovation, critical thinking and an appetite for dynamic and fast‑paced working.
What will I be doing?
- Design and deliver individual projects, within designated areas or topics with a particular emphasis on strategic planning and housing issues.
- Working collaboratively with a wide range of consultants and working groups to ensure coordinated output in accordance with their brief
- Give specialist professional and technical advice to the service manager, other professional teams and working groups, members of the public and work groups on projects set out in the team service plan.
- Prepare planning policies and planning guidance on all aspects of plan-making.
- Procuring and managing consultants to achieve best value and deliver successful project outcomes and keep up to date individual project business plans and financial appraisals.
- Oversee and contribute to the maintenance, updating of and of review datasets.
What do I need?
- Education to a degree level or equivalent in a town planning related discipline, with knowledge of the law relating to planning matters.
- A strong track record of leading on complex local or regional planning policy development and implementation.
- Ability to manage planning related projects and complex workloads.
- Ability to interpret and monitor complex statistical data.
- Experience in project brief preparation for major development sites.
- Excellent stakeholder management skills with the ability to represent the Council in meetings with developers, consultants, barristers, or other external organisations and in formal settings such as inquiries of examinations in public
- The ability to operate confidently within a complex political, organisational and partnership environment.
- Ability to work as part of a team and to mentor and supervise project work of junior team members.
Why join us?
This is a unique opportunity to join an ambitious and collaborative team that is helping to shape the future of Bristol. You'll work on the new framework of planning policy for Bristol as we launch our New System Local Plan.
Why Bristol City Council?
At Bristol City Council, we go that extra mile for our people; we offer a work environment which is fast moving and supportive, giving you the chance to use your skills and develop new ones within a high-profile organisation. For the majority of our roles hybrid working arrangements are available, giving teams the opportunity to work in a way that suits them, balancing service need and individual choice - mixing both home and office working. Join us and you’ll receive an excellent rewards package including flexible working and flexitime, membership of the Local Government Pension scheme, and a generous annual leave allowance. In addition, you’ll be working in a supportive environment where you’ll have the chance to make Bristol a better place and contribute to its future.
We’re a Disability Confident employer which means we value recruiting and retaining disabled people. Any job applicants who consider themselves to be disabled and meet the essential criteria in the Person Specification are guaranteed an interview. We’ll make reasonable adjustments throughout the interview process and provide continued workplace support throughout your career.
At Bristol City Council, we value having a workforce as diverse as the city we serve. We therefore welcome, develop and promote people from all sections of the community. Appointments will be made on merit.
The personal information section (including your name) you’ll complete as part of the application form will not be visible to hiring managers but is used confidentially to make sure that everyone is treated fairly.
Specialist Professional (Planning Policy) employer: Bristol City Council
Bristol City Council is an excellent employer, offering a supportive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. As a Trauma-Informed Recovery Navigator, you will benefit from flexible working hours and generous leave allowances, allowing you to balance your personal and professional life while making a meaningful impact in the community. Join us in a role that not only fosters collaboration with various services but also empowers you to contribute to the recovery journey of individuals facing complex challenges.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist Professional (Planning Policy)
✨Dive into Local Government Events
Get yourself to local government events and public sector job fairs. These are great for meeting recruiters and understanding what different organisations, like Bristol City Council, are looking for. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the sector!
✨Join Relevant Networks
Look for communities focused on public sector careers. Whether it’s local networking groups or online forums, connecting with professionals in the field can provide insider knowledge and opportunities that you won’t find on typical job boards.
✨Utilise Your University’s Resources
If you’re freshly graduated or still studying, make the most of your university's careers service. They often have exclusive partnerships with companies like Bristol City Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist Professional (Planning Policy)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Relevant Experience:In the public sector, having experience in community engagement, policy analysis, or project management stands out. Make sure to showcase any previous roles or volunteer work that reflects your understanding of public service values and how they've shaped your career path.
Showcase Your Knowledge of the Sector:When you’re applying for a government role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the current political landscape and public policies. Consider including articles you've written or relevant projects that underline your capability to engage with these concepts effectively.
Tailor Your CV to Reflect Core Competencies:Government positions often require a clear demonstration of competencies such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving. Try to structure your CV to highlight these skills, using specific examples of how you’ve applied them in past experiences, ideally with quantifiable outcomes where possible.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell your story and convey your passion for public service. Discuss why you want to work for Bristol City Council and how your values align with their mission. Be genuine and let your enthusiasm shine through—this can really set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Bristol City Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Bristol City Council, dig deep into their mission and values, especially how they align with public service and community impact. Understand the key policies or initiatives they are involved in – you’ll want to show that you genuinely care about serving the community.
✨Brush Up on Regulatory Knowledge
Brush up on the regulations, laws, and compliance standards relevant to the role you’re applying for. Since this is the government and public sector, they might throw technical questions related to policy frameworks or project management best practices that you'll need to navigate day-to-day.
✨Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration
The government sector thrives on collaboration. Be ready to discuss how you've successfully worked in diverse teams or involved stakeholders in your projects. Show us how you bring people together to get a common goal achieved – that's what public service is all about!
✨Prepare Real-Life Examples
Craft a few STAR (Situation, Task, Action, Result) stories that demonstrate your experience in similar roles. Whether it’s a project that made a difference in the community or a challenging situation you managed, be ready to express how your skills and experiences make you a valuable asset for Bristol City Council.
