At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead urban planning projects, mentor junior staff, and engage with the community.
- Company: Join Connect2Hackney, partnering with Hackney Council for impactful public service.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a chance to shape vibrant communities.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for leadership and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in Hackney's urban landscape while advancing your career.
- Qualifications: Postgraduate qualification in Town Planning and RTPI membership required.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
At Connect2Hackney, we are the direct, internal talent team partnering with the London Borough of Hackney to recruit skilled professionals who are passionate about public service and place-shaping.
Hackney is one of London's most dynamic, diverse, and fast-evolving boroughs.
We are currently looking for a motivated and experienced Principal Planning Officer to join the Development Management team within the Housing, Climate & Economy directorate.
In this role, you will play a central part in balancing high-quality urban growth with climate resilience, community needs, and heritage conservation across Hackney's vibrant inner-city landscape.
The Role
As a Principal Planning Officer, you will take lead responsibility for progressing a wide portfolio of development management matters within an area-based team.
You will handle complex casework, mentor junior colleagues, and serve as an expert spokesperson for the Council.
Key Responsibilities
- Casework
Leadership: Lead on pre-application advice, high-level planning applications, and negotiations on complex proposals, securing tangible financial and community infrastructure benefits via Section 106 agreements.
- Planning
- Appeals
Coordination: Coordinate the planning appeal function for the Development Management team, acting as the Council's lead officer at Public Inquiries, hearings, and written representations.
- Team Leadership & Mentoring: Provide day-to-day guidance, coaching, and mentoring to junior planners, supporting their professional development and deputising for the DM Team Leader when required.
- Stakeholder & Public
Engagement: Represent the Council at Planning Committees, public forums, and developer meetings, ensuring clear, accessible communication across Hackney's diverse communities.
- Service Improvement: Drive innovative solutions, contribute to policy reviews, and assist in refining workflow systems and performance metrics across the service.
- What We Are Looking For
- Qualifications: A postgraduate qualification in Town Planning and full corporate membership of (or eligibility for) the RTPI (Mandatory).
- Technical
Expertise: Substantial experience operating at a senior level within Development Management, with an in-depth understanding of current planning legislation, inner-urban planning issues, and complex legal agreements.
- Appeals & Inquiries Experience: Proven ability to prepare evidence and present robust, defensible arguments in public forums, committees, and inquiries.
- Mentorship & Collaboration: A track record of mentoring staff, fostering collaborative team working, and managing challenging workloads under minimal supervision.
- Values-Led Approach: A strong commitment to equality, diversity, and customer-focused public service delivery.
- Flexibility: Willingness to attend evening Planning Committees or other public meetings outside standard working hours as required.
Why Join Hackney through Connect2Hackney?
Connect2Hackney gives you a direct route into working with Hackney Council.
As an internal talent partner, we work closely with hiring managers to ensure you receive clear guidance, transparent feedback, and dedicated support throughout the recruitment process.
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Principal Planning Officer (Development Management) in London employer: Connect2Hackney
Hackney Education is an exceptional employer that prioritises the professional development of its staff while fostering a collaborative and innovative work culture. As an Early Years/Child Care Trainer, you will have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on children's education in Hackney, supported by a dedicated team and access to continuous training and resources. Join us to be part of a community that values diversity, inclusion, and the growth of every individual.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer (Development Management) in London
✨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 Connect2Hackney, 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 Connect2Hackney 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 Principal Planning Officer (Development Management) in London
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 Connect2Hackney 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 Connect2Hackney
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Connect2Hackney, 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 Connect2Hackney.
