At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape transport development in East Sussex and liaise with local planning authorities.
- Company: Join a dynamic team at East Sussex County Council, influencing local development.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community development while collaborating with knowledgeable professionals.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning or transport planning is essential; strong relationship-building skills required.
- Other info: Interviews can be conducted in person or via Microsoft Teams for your convenience.
Are you looking to shape and influence development and change in East Sussex? If so, an exciting opportunity has arisen for the right individual to work in the role of Principal within the Transport Development Planning team. In this integral and high-profile role, you will liaise with local planning authorities to influence all types of development and ensure that transport priorities are met. You will maintain oversight for the County Council’s input on pre-planning and planning applications with respect to all transport modes, ensuring that robust and consistent advice is provided to local planning authorities.
We are looking for candidates who have:
- experience of working within the planning and/or transport planning sector
- the skills to manage a varied workload in a fast-paced environment
- an ability to develop and maintain working relationships with colleagues, stakeholders and partner organisations
This position provides a real opportunity to influence development and change in East Sussex. You will be supported by a highly knowledgeable team, working in a positive and collaborative manner.
To apply please submit your CV and a covering letter. This should set out how you meet the essential requirements in the job description and person specification found here. Please also provide any other information which you feel makes you a suitable candidate. If you would like more information about the role or for an informal discussion, please contact michelle.edser@eastsussex.gov.uk.
Interviews will take place at County Hall in Lewes during the weeks commencing 30 June and 7 July 2025. If you are unavailable then, or wish to have the interview over Microsoft Teams, do let us know and we will seek to accommodate this.
We offer a diverse range of benefits to help and support you during your employment. More information can be found on our benefits page.
Principal Transport Development Planner employer: East Sussex County Council

Contact Detail:
East Sussex County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Transport Development Planner
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the local planning authorities in East Sussex. Understanding their priorities and challenges will help you tailor your discussions and demonstrate your knowledge during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the transport planning sector. Attend local events or join relevant online forums to connect with others in the field, which can provide insights and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've influenced development projects in the past. Highlighting your experience in managing relationships with stakeholders will showcase your suitability for this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Research current transport initiatives and policies in East Sussex. Being knowledgeable about ongoing projects will allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Transport Development Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the key responsibilities and requirements. Make a note of the essential skills and experiences they are looking for, as this will help you tailor your application.
Craft a Tailored Cover Letter: Your cover letter should specifically address how your experience aligns with the role of Principal Transport Development Planner. Highlight relevant projects or roles where you've influenced development and change, and demonstrate your understanding of transport planning.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your CV, ensure you highlight your experience in planning and transport sectors. Use specific examples that demonstrate your ability to manage workloads and build relationships with stakeholders, as these are crucial for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which is vital for a high-profile role.
How to prepare for a job interview at East Sussex County Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Principal Transport Development Planner. Familiarise yourself with the key aspects of the job, such as liaising with local planning authorities and providing transport advice on planning applications.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
Prepare to discuss your experience in transport planning or related fields. Highlight specific projects or roles where you've successfully managed workloads and developed relationships with stakeholders, as these are crucial for this position.
✨Demonstrate Collaboration Skills
Since the role involves working within a team and with various partners, be ready to provide examples of how you've effectively collaborated in the past. This could include discussing how you’ve navigated challenges or built consensus among different parties.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare insightful questions about the team's dynamics, current projects, or future challenges in transport planning in East Sussex to show your genuine interest in the role.