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- Tasks: Shape communities and develop planning policies for Babergh and Mid Suffolk.
- Company: Join Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council, a forward-thinking local authority.
- Benefits: Generous leave, competitive pension, wellbeing support, and flexible working options.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local development and community engagement.
- Qualifications: Degree in relevant field and some spatial planning policy experience.
- Other info: Hybrid working environment with great career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 31537 - 44075 £ per year.
Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council are looking to recruit a Senior Planning Policy Officer to join our team-based in Ipswich, Suffolk. You will join us on a full-time, permanent basis. The successful candidate will earn a competitive salary of £31,537 to £44,075 per annum (pro rata for part time). This role is open to full-time, part-time, and job-share applications, all of which will be assessed equally. This is a career grade role, offering career development through a skills matrix. Entry grade and salary will depend on knowledge and experience.
About The Role
Would you like to shape our communities and places in Babergh and Mid Suffolk for the better? An exciting opportunity has become available in the team that delivers the Local Plan for our districts. The councils adopted the Babergh and Mid Suffolk Joint Local Plan Part 1 Development Plan Document in November 2023 and are currently undertaking a Joint Local Plan Review under the new plan‑making system, which will plan ahead to 2045. The Joint Local Plan Review will seek to address the challenge of increasing housing and employment needs together with the delivery of associated infrastructure whilst preserving what is unique about the districts.
We are looking for a collaborative and strategic‑minded individual to play a key role in supporting the formulation of planning policy, including major and strategic site allocation, working with external consultants on the development of evidence base and appraisal. There will be the need to work collaboratively across the two councils in supporting the development of strategies including infrastructure, as well as working with councillors, neighbouring local authorities, Suffolk County Council, and other infrastructure providers. Engagement with the community and involvement in the preparation of neighbourhood development plans are key aspects of the role. The post will support the delivery of the councils' corporate objectives.
About You
You will be educated to degree level in an appropriate discipline, with some spatial planning policy experience, and membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute is desirable. Knowledge of Local Government practice and procedures will also be required as well as a good understanding of the plan‑making process. Effective communication skills and an ability to develop strong working relationships are essential together with time management and organisational skills. Good IT skills and experience with modern Microsoft products is expected.
Now is an exciting time to join our team, as we look to update and develop the software we use with innovative packages to present information in different ways.
Benefits
- Generous leave entitlement (26 days a year, rising to 31 days after 5 years).
- Competitive Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Wellbeing support and Employee Assistance Programs.
- Private health care options.
- Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme.
- Paid volunteering days.
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (business needs permitting).
- Great learning and development opportunities.
Our Ways of Working
We believe work is what we do, not just where we go. We work in a hybrid way, with a mix of office, home, and remote based working (business need permitting). Our hybrid working arrangements support flexibility and collaboration, helping our teams to thrive. We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion, providing opportunity and ambition for all, supporting and enabling our people to deliver the best possible services for our residents.
Closing date: 5 pm, 6 January 2026. Interview date: week commencing, 12 January 2026. If you think you have what it takes to be successful in this Senior Planning Policy Officer role, even if you don't meet all the requirements, please apply. We would appreciate the opportunity to consider your application. The authority is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. DBS checks or police vetting will be required for relevant posts.
Senior Planning Policy Officer in Ipswich employer: Illuminated Interiors
Contact Detail:
Illuminated Interiors Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Policy Officer in Ipswich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the planning policy field, especially those connected to Babergh and Mid Suffolk District Council. Attend local events or webinars to make connections and show your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the council's recent projects and policies. Being able to discuss their Joint Local Plan Review will show that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! Since this role involves collaboration with various stakeholders, being able to articulate your ideas clearly and confidently is key. Consider mock interviews with friends or mentors.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Policy Officer in Ipswich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Planning Policy Officer role. Highlight your relevant experience in spatial planning and any projects that showcase your strategic thinking and collaboration skills.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since effective communication is key in this role, use your application to demonstrate how you've successfully engaged with stakeholders or communities in the past. Share specific examples that reflect your ability to build strong working relationships.
Highlight Your IT Proficiency: Mention your experience with modern Microsoft products and any innovative software you've used in previous roles. This will show us that you're ready to embrace the exciting updates we’re making in our team.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates regarding your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Illuminated Interiors
✨Know Your Local Plans
Familiarise yourself with the Babergh and Mid Suffolk Joint Local Plan and its recent updates. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially regarding housing and infrastructure needs.
✨Showcase Your Collaboration Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked with various stakeholders, such as local authorities or community groups. Highlight your ability to build relationships and engage effectively with different parties.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Think about how you can contribute to the strategic development of planning policies. Be prepared to discuss your approach to balancing community needs with planning regulations and how you would tackle challenges in this area.
✨Brush Up on IT Skills
Since the role involves using modern software for presenting information, make sure you're comfortable with Microsoft products and any relevant planning software. Mention any specific tools you've used in the past that could be beneficial for this position.
