At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning policy projects and guide the borough's growth and development.
- Company: Join Halton's dynamic Planning Policy Team and make a real impact.
- Benefits: Competitive pay at £29.46 per hour, with bi-weekly payments.
- Other info: Immediate start available with opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Shape local planning policies and engage with diverse stakeholders.
- Qualifications: RTPI-accredited Planning Degree and experience in local authority planning.
The predicted salary is between 29.46 - 29.46 £ per hour.
The Principal Planning Policy Officer plays a crucial role within Halton’s Planning Policy Team, providing senior-level expertise to guide the borough's future growth and development. This position involves acting as a key adviser on planning policy matters, delivering strategic objectives, managing projects, and supporting the development, review, and implementation of Local Plans in accordance with national and local policy frameworks.
Key Responsibilities
- Serve as the Council’s lead adviser on planning policy matters
- Deliver key planning policy objectives and agreed work programmes
- Support the strategic direction of the Planning Policy function
- Supervise and support Planning Policy Officers
- Provide guidance, allocate workloads, and support team development
- Promote continuous professional development within the team
- Lead the preparation, monitoring, and review of Local Plans
- Prepare and maintain site assessments and supporting evidence
- Ensure policies align with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and Planning Practice Guidance (PPG)
- Lead multidisciplinary planning policy projects
- Commission and undertake research to inform policy and strategy
- Develop and implement planning strategies, policies, and action plans
- Engage with internal teams, partners, residents, and stakeholders
- Support consultations and community engagement activities
- Present complex planning information clearly and effectively
Working Environment
- Collaborative and strategic planning team
- Office-based with stakeholder engagement across the borough
Person Specification
Qualifications
- Essential: RTPI-accredited Planning Degree MRTPI (Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute)
Knowledge
- Strong knowledge of UK planning legislation, policy, and procedures
- In-depth understanding of Local Plan development processes
- Knowledge of NPPF and PPG guidance
Experience
- Proven experience delivering Local Plans from conception through to adoption
- Experience working within planning policy in a local authority or similar setting
- Experience managing or supporting multidisciplinary projects
Skills & Competencies
- Strong analytical and research skills
- Excellent report writing and presentation abilities
- Ability to communicate complex planning information clearly
- Strong project management and organisational skills
- Ability to manage multiple priorities and deadlines
- Excellent communication and collaboration skills
Other Requirements
- Ability to engage effectively with a wide range of stakeholders
- Commitment to continuous professional development
- Supportive and collaborative approach to team working
Additional Information
- Contract length to be confirmed
- Pay is provided on a bi-weekly basis
- Opportunity to play a key role in shaping local planning policy
- Immediate start available
Principal Planning Policy Officer in Halton employer: Civic Recruitment Limited
As a Principal Planning Policy Officer in Halton, you will join a collaborative and strategic planning team dedicated to shaping the borough's future growth. The role offers competitive pay, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to engage with diverse stakeholders, making it an excellent environment for those passionate about planning policy. With a focus on teamwork and continuous improvement, this position provides a meaningful opportunity to influence local planning initiatives.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Policy Officer in Halton
✨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 Principal Planning Policy Officer in Halton
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 Civic Recruitment Limited
✨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 Civic Recruitment Limited.
✨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 Civic Recruitment Limited 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.
