At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of Dorset's new Local Plan and Design Guide.
- Company: Connect2Dorset, a trusted agency supporting local government initiatives.
- Benefits: Competitive daily rate, potential for extension, and impactful work.
- Other info: Opportunity to work closely with senior stakeholders and drive meaningful change.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in shaping Dorset's future through strategic planning.
- Qualifications: Senior experience in Strategic Planning and team leadership required.
Local Government Experience
Up to £650 to £900 per Day
Inside IR35
6 months * potential for extending.
*Must be able to attend site in Dorchester/Dorset 3 to 4 days a week.
About Us
Connect2Dorset is a managed service agency owned by Dorset Council providing temporary, contract and interim opportunities into the Council. Our service is built on our values of ethical, trustworthy, and caring, and our profits are returned to our Local Authority shareholders.
We are looking for an Interim Lead for the Dorset Local Plan. You will report jointly to the Corporate Director for Planning and the Executive Director for Economy and Environment. For the purpose of the Local Plan, you will manage the Service Manager for Spatial Planning and the teams that report to her, with approximately 50 employees. Your objective is to lead Dorset's work to deliver a new Local Plan under the new NPPF and a new Design Guide for Dorset.
Working with the Corporate Director and the Service Manager for Spatial Planning, you will:
- Establish a critical path timescale and robust project management arrangements for the new Local Plan.
- Drive forward tangible progress on the new Local Plan and Design Guide for Dorset, leading through the project management arrangements you have put in place.
- Ensure that the resources of the Spatial Planning Team and the wider Planning Department are geared towards the primary objectives of producing a new Local Plan.
- Work closely with the Cabinet Member for Planning, Councillor committees, and the Executive Director, managing your work diary in such a way as to maximise your face-to-face working time with these senior stakeholders.
- Work with other members of the Planning Department, colleagues across the Council and externally in so far as this reflects your role as Interim Lead for the Dorset Local Plan.
- Comply with the Council's financial, procurement and health and safety regulations.
Experience:
- Significant experience in a senior role within Strategic Planning.
- A demonstrative record of delivery, particularly in respect of the production and adoption of Local Plans.
- Significant experience of engaging, guiding and influencing senior and statutory officers on complex strategic planning and transport matters.
- Experience of leading, inspiring and motivating teams, colleagues and partners to drive services forward, achieving high quality delivery with reducing resources.
- Ability to successfully influence key decision makers and stakeholders at senior levels, both internal and external to the Council.
- Good understanding of the political context at regional and local level and working with Elected Members in a constructive and sensitive way.
- Ability to quickly build credibility with senior managers and stakeholders.
Connect2Dorset is an equal opportunities Employment Agency & Business. It positively encourages applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates.
Interim Lead for Dorset Local Plan employer: Connect2Dorset
Connect2Dorset is an exceptional employer that prioritises ethical values and community impact, making it a rewarding place to work. With a strong focus on employee development and collaboration, you will have the opportunity to lead significant projects in a supportive environment while contributing to the future of Dorset's local planning. The role offers competitive daily rates and the chance to engage directly with senior stakeholders, ensuring your expertise is valued and impactful.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Interim Lead for Dorset Local Plan
✨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 Interim Lead for Dorset Local Plan
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 Connect2Dorset
✨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 Connect2Dorset.
✨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 Connect2Dorset 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.
