Trainee Construction Planner

We are LWM, a company wholly owned by Lichfield District Council, a local authority in the heart of England that provides local services to over 100,000 residents. Our District is a beautiful place to live and work, with its historic city centre which has the impressive Lichfield Cathedral and is the birthplace of Samuel Johnson. In return, we can build stronger foundations, provide quality services, and help support our company objectives longer term. We have an exciting opportunity for a highly experienced Senior Planner with a strong commercial background to join our ambitious team at LWM Planning, part of LWMTS. Our experienced Planners work on a wide range of projects from national and international Commercial Employment, enterprise, and logistical opportunities, HS2 and infrastructure, including strategic and major planning projects, throughout the district and UK. This includes delivering pre-application advice, the drafting and implementation of planning performance agreements, the assessment of major planning applications and the management of appeals. The role also includes liaising and delivery of bespoke planning work for private clients and other local authorities across the UK and helping the team generate income and meet key targets. Manage and process major planning applications, particularly those of a complex nature. Contribute to and process bespoke private planning consultancy work and projects as required. Advise and guide developers on local development opportunities through the pre-app and planning performance agreement processes. Contribute to planning appeals work, including the co-ordination of appeal work. Play a key role in the production and review of planning procedures and protocols. Represent the council and LWM Planning at local and national level. Contribute to councillor training and support, including attending councillor drop-in sessions, delivering councillor training sessions and being the key point of contact for queries relating to applications processed by the team. Contribute to the planning policy and service improvement/transformation reports to the council’s cabinet and any other relevant committees. Degree or Diploma in Town and Country Planning. Extensive knowledge and experience in Development Management and/or planning policy, including the processing of significantly major planning applications. Negotiations involving Section 106 Planning and CIL Obligations. Knowledge & understanding of planning/environmental law & procedures. An effective team leader able to demonstrate an understanding of team leadership qualities. Capable of taking projects from concept to completion. Excellent Commercial and project management experience. Full driving license and access to car. You will also benefit from a fantastic salary package including Private Health Care, 5% Pension contribution, free parking, hybrid working, fab refurbished offices in a central location, plus, more! and Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check if applicable