At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead investigations on planning enforcement cases and represent the Council in appeals and court.
- Company: Join Guildford Borough, a vibrant market town with rich history and excellent transport links.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, competitive salary, professional development, and staff discounts.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on preserving heritage while mentoring junior staff in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning enforcement and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Opportunity to work in beautiful surroundings and contribute to community well-being.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Guildford Borough is a regional centre for leisure, business, education, retail and culture. Guildford is a thriving market town that has maintained much of its historic character and is a principal shopping destination with a vibrant night-time economy. The town’s location provides excellent transport links as well as providing the balance of being surrounded by beautiful countryside, including the Surrey Hills National Landscape. All of these factors contribute to a quality of life that makes it one of the best places to live in the UK.
We want to appoint one experienced and dedicated Principal Planning Enforcement Officer to join our skilled and fast-paced Planning Enforcement Services which deals with a wide range of complaints about alleged breaches of planning control.
It is an excellent time to work at Guildford, the Authority has an up-to-date local plan, with a keen focus on preserving the Borough’s heritage and landscape whilst ensuring that the Borough provides high quality homes and access to employment.
The Principal Officer in the Planning Enforcement Team will have the opportunity to work on a wide range of planning enforcement files, including contentious matters that may require court attendance and participation in planning enforcement appeals, including inquiries. You will also be one of the key officers responsible for mentoring junior staff.
The role
Principal Planning Enforcement Officer (Planning Enforcement):
You will play a key role in the investigation and management of a wide range of planning enforcement cases, including cases of a contentious and complicated nature. You will be required to draft and prepare enforcement reports and notices, independently manage and represent the Council at enforcement appeals (including public inquiries) and the role may also require you to represent the Council in court proceedings. As set out above, the role will involve working with applications in the urban area, the Green Belt, National Landscape, on sites within conservation areas and which impact on listed buildings. In addition, you will be expected to assist with the mentoring of junior colleagues.
We are a diverse organisation, delivering a wide range of services and employing people with a broad range of skills. We want to attract the best staff, so we offer excellent benefits, including: a competitive salary; flexible working arrangements; Hybrid working, cycle to work scheme, payment of one professional membership per annum, mileage allowance and training and development opportunities where required.
We also provide health and wellbeing initiatives, an employee assistance program and staff discounts off a range of well-known high street shops and supermarkets.
For more information, please contact Joanna Searle, Planning Enforcement Team Leader on joanna.searle@guildford.gov.uk.
Principal Planning Enforcement Officer (10891) employer: Guildford Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Guildford Borough Council Recruiting Team
joanna.searle@guildford.gov.uk
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Enforcement Officer (10891)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the local planning policies and regulations in Guildford. Understanding the specific challenges and opportunities within the area will help you demonstrate your knowledge during the interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Highlight your experience with contentious planning enforcement cases. Be prepared to discuss specific examples where you've successfully managed complex situations, as this will showcase your capability for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Emphasize your mentoring skills and experience. Since the role involves guiding junior staff, sharing examples of how you've supported and developed others in previous positions will be beneficial.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the current projects and initiatives within the Planning Enforcement Services at Guildford Borough. Being knowledgeable about their recent work will show your genuine interest in the position and the organization.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Enforcement Officer (10891)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take the time to thoroughly read the job description for the Principal Planning Enforcement Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities, such as managing planning enforcement cases and mentoring junior staff, so you can tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasize your experience in planning enforcement, particularly with complex cases. Mention any relevant court experience or involvement in public inquiries, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
Showcase Your Skills: Make sure to highlight skills that are crucial for the position, such as report writing, case management, and communication skills. Provide specific examples of how you've successfully used these skills in previous roles.
Personalize Your Application: Address your application to the Planning Enforcement Team Leader, Joanna Searle, and express your enthusiasm for the role and the opportunity to contribute to Guildford's planning enforcement services. A personal touch can make a significant difference.
How to prepare for a job interview at Guildford Borough Council
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you have a clear understanding of the responsibilities of a Principal Planning Enforcement Officer. Familiarize yourself with planning enforcement processes, especially those related to contentious cases and court proceedings.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss your previous experience in planning enforcement or related fields. Highlight specific cases you've managed, particularly those that required complex problem-solving or legal representation.
✨Demonstrate Mentoring Skills
Since mentoring junior staff is part of the role, be ready to share examples of how you've supported or guided less experienced colleagues in the past. This will show your leadership capabilities.
✨Align with Guildford's Values
Research Guildford Borough's local plan and their focus on preserving heritage and landscape. Be prepared to discuss how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to maintaining the quality of life in the area.