At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning strategy and infrastructure projects in a fast-growing borough.
- Company: Join Dartford, a vibrant area with urban and rural charm.
- Benefits: Hybrid working options, part-time arrangements considered, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Convenient transport links to London and a collaborative work culture.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local development and policy in a dynamic setting.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning strategy, infrastructure policy, and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you in planning strategy or infrastructure and seek an influential new senior role? Or are you currently in local government development management with strategic and political skills and experience, and are looking for a fresh challenge? Join Dartford, the second fastest growing Borough in the country, and take the lead.
We are looking to sustain our high growth and deliver our up-to-date Local Plan through new supporting policy and infrastructure, and maximising benefits from our multi-million pound CIL funding. You will have in-depth planning strategy and infrastructure planning expertise, through significant statutory Plan preparation experience, infrastructure policy work or suitable strategic public sector development management experience.
Dartford is the Kent Borough adjoining London on the River Thames. The area is both urban and rural, including Ebbsfleet Garden City and Bluewater shopping centre, but also marshland, heath, and Ancient Woodland. Dartford (alongside Arup) is the proud RTPI Silver Jubilee Cup award winner for the Lower Darent Riverside Strategy.
We are looking for an innovative and flexible thinker keen for a challenge in a positive and integrated Planning & Place division. Demonstrable experience of policy-based decisions on large scale infrastructure investment or developer contribution expenditure prioritisation is required. Substantial knowledge of national planning policy / local plan legislation and reform is necessary.
You will have strong quantitative, analytical and written capabilities, a creative approach to problem solving and good leadership and communication attributes. You will be managing and working with an enthusiastic team, whilst reporting to and being supported by the Head of Planning Strategy.
We offer hybrid working arrangements which seek a balance of home and office-based working. Part-time working arrangements will be considered for the right candidate, please call if you wish to discuss your circumstances.
Conveniently located, the Borough’s connections are more than just the Dartford crossing and M25. Dartford rail station (adjacent to the Council offices) is just 11 minutes travel from the Elizabeth Line, and has Thameslink and direct links to London Charing Cross and Victoria. We have good buses including TfL services and Fastrack rapid transit.
If you would like to speak about this post please contact Mark Aplin, Head of Planning Strategy on 01322 343202.
How to apply: Please complete your application by using the apply button below. Do not send your CV – only fully completed application forms will be accepted.
Planning Strategy Lead in Kent employer: Dartford Borough Council
Dartford offers an exceptional opportunity for professionals in planning strategy and infrastructure, providing a dynamic work environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we support flexible working arrangements and encourage a healthy work-life balance, all while being situated in a vibrant area with excellent transport links to London. Join us in shaping the future of Dartford, where your expertise will directly contribute to our award-winning initiatives and community development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Strategy Lead in Kent
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in the planning strategy and infrastructure sectors. Attend local events or webinars, and don’t be shy about introducing yourself. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Dartford’s recent projects and initiatives. Show us you’re genuinely interested in the role by discussing how your skills can contribute to their ongoing success. Tailor your examples to highlight your strategic and political experience.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! You’ll want to clearly articulate your experience in policy-based decisions and large-scale infrastructure investments. Keep it concise and impactful, so we remember you for all the right reasons.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our team at Dartford. Get that application in and let’s make great things happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Strategy Lead in Kent
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start your application, make sure to read the job description thoroughly. We want to see that you understand what we're looking for in a Planning Strategy Lead, so highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the role.
Be Specific in Your Responses:When filling out the application form, be as specific as possible. Use examples from your past experiences that demonstrate your expertise in planning strategy and infrastructure. We love seeing how you've tackled challenges in your previous roles!
Show Off Your Communication Skills:Since strong written capabilities are key for this role, make sure your application is clear and well-structured. We appreciate a creative approach, so don’t hesitate to showcase your personality while keeping it professional.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only accept fully completed application forms, so make sure to apply through our website using the apply button below. This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dartford Borough Council
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Make sure you brush up on national planning policy and local plan legislation before the interview. Being able to discuss recent reforms and how they impact Dartford will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your communication skills and how you've managed to inspire and motivate your team, especially in challenging situations. This is key for a senior role like Planning Strategy Lead.
✨Demonstrate Analytical Thinking
Be ready to discuss your quantitative and analytical capabilities. You might be asked to solve a hypothetical problem related to infrastructure investment or policy decisions, so practice articulating your thought process clearly and logically.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about Dartford's growth plans and the challenges they face. This not only shows your interest in the position but also gives you a chance to demonstrate your strategic thinking and understanding of the local context.
