At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Council’s Local Plan production and manage planning teams for jobs and homes.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking Council dedicated to community growth and development.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fantastic range of staff benefits, including support for work-life balance.
- Other info: Be part of a dynamic team focused on continuous improvement and community impact.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community by shaping local planning strategies.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning policy and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Do you want to lead the Council’s next Local Plan production? We have made good progress over recent years in producing up to date evidence to inform the Plan Making process and are shortly to launch our early engagement consultation under the new plan making system.
The Planning Policy and Strategy Group has responsibility for the preparation and review of the Council’s statutory Development Plan and overall strategic land‑use planning for the district. The Group also provides appropriate policy guidance for the determination of planning applications which assists the Council and others to make important investment decisions particularly around the Council’s key aims of: growing the number of jobs in the district, increasing our business base and providing an appropriate supply of affordable homes.
As the Planning Policy and Strategy Group Leader, you will have specific responsibility for directing and overall management of 2 teams of planners within the Planning Policy Group that focus on Jobs, Homes and Planning Research. You will ensure that operationally the teams work efficiently and effectively and that the services provided are of a high quality standard and demonstrate value for money.
You will develop the potential of your staff and promote a good working environment which maximises and values employee contribution in achieving service and council objectives. You will promote a culture of performance management, continuous improvement and ongoing achievement. Your success will be measured against the operational effectiveness of your group to deliver high quality, cost effective provision to the Service which meet the council’s political and strategic priorities.
You will ensure that budgets assigned are allocated, monitored, managed and controlled effectively and you will be accountable for ensuring the functions undertaken by the group are delivered within budget. You will plan, monitor, manage and evaluate the work of your teams. To improve effectiveness in operational performance, you will be accountable for monitoring and reviewing service delivery against Council objectives, targets, standards and performance measures.
To support the Head of Planning and the wider Council, you will contribute to the development, monitoring and review of initiatives, projects and improvement agendas ensuring appropriate links are made in relation to their impact. To contribute to the achievement of the Service outcomes and maximise opportunities, you will develop and improve the service’s ability to adopt a partnership approach with external agencies so that effective relationships are maintained in localities and through regeneration partnerships. You will also use any available opportunity to influence key drivers for delivery at ward and locality level.
You will need to ensure that your group complies with constitutional, financial and democratic requirements in relation to decision making and scrutiny and that relationships with elected members are well supported and managed. Communication is vital for the effective and efficient work of the Planning Policy and Strategy Group and you will ensure there are information and communication processes, so that all your teams are aware of the Council’s vision and values and any future plans which may impact on how the service is delivered. Externally you will also actively promote the work of the Council and the Planning and Development Service, with the public and partner agencies.
You will be a member of the Planning and Development Management Team. As a member of the Management Team you will work with other Senior Managers as appropriate driving forward a programme of continuous improvement in the service and you will positively contribute towards the Council and Service core values and strategies.
BENEFITS
Our employees are at the very heart of the services we provide to the community, to help us achieve our ambitions, we want the best possible team. In return, we will make sure you are rewarded with a great range of staff benefits to support you in and out of work.
Group Leader- Planning Policy and Strategy employer: Kirklees Council
Kirklees Council is an excellent employer that prioritises the wellbeing of its staff and the community. With a supportive work culture, opportunities for professional growth, and the chance to make a meaningful impact in the lives of students, this role as a Pastoral Wellbeing & Policy Coordinator offers a rewarding experience in a collaborative environment. Located in a vibrant area, employees benefit from a strong sense of community and the potential for a permanent position after the initial contract.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Group Leader- Planning Policy and Strategy
✨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 Kirklees Council, 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 Kirklees Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
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We think you need these skills to ace Group Leader- Planning Policy and Strategy
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 Kirklees Council 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 Kirklees Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Kirklees Council, 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 Kirklees Council.
