Area Planning Deputy Team Leader (Planning Service)

This is a great opportunity to join a high-performing Development Management team in a newly created role, part of our Planning Service transformation. As Deputy Team Leader, you’ll support our two Area Planning Team Leaders in managing the area-based planning teams. You’ll handle a varied caseload, from household applications to complex major developments. You’ll manage complex pre-application enquiries and represent the Council at appeals. You’ll also line manage up to three staff, supporting them through regular one-to-ones and case reviews. You’ll take part in recruitment and performance management, with support from your Team Leader. The role includes signing off planning decisions under the Council’s Scheme of Delegation and presenting applications at Planning Committee.

About You

• A degree in Town & Country Planning or a related field (e.g. geography, construction, architecture)
• RTPI membership (or be working towards it)
• Strong experience handling strategic planning applications in local government
• Team management skills and the ability to work under pressure
• Good knowledge of planning legislation and policy
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• A full UK driving licence is essential

For further information, or an informal discussion about the role, please contact Katie Crosbie - Area Planning Service Manager – North (kcrosbie@hillingdon.gov.uk).

We reserve the right to close the recruitment process before the advertised date.

About us

We value our employees and are committed to ensuring that they enjoy a fulfilling and rewarding career with us. We understand that a happy and motivated workforce is essential for the success of our organisation. That is why we offer a wide range of employee benefits to enhance your work-life balance, financial wellbeing, health, and professional development.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the fantastic benefits we provide:

• Work Life Balance
  • Flexible Working Hours – We recognise the importance of flexibility in managing your work and personal life
  • 36 Hour Week – Enjoy a standard 36-hour workweek for all full-time staff
  • Generous Holiday Entitlement – You will receive a minimum of 26 days annual leave each year, in addition to bank holidays. This entitlement increases to a maximum 37 days after 10 years of service
• Health & Wellbeing
  • Hillingdon Sport Leisure – Stay active and healthy with discounts at council owned leisure centres and swimming pools across the borough
  • Cycle Purchase Scheme – Promote eco-friendly commuting with our cycle purchase scheme
  • Discount on Golf Fees – Enjoy up to 30% discounts on green fees at council owned golf courses
  • Financial Benefits – Secure your future with access to the Local Government Pension Scheme and membership to the Credit Union
  • Vivup Benefits – Access a variety of offers and discounts through our Vivup Benefits
  • Eye Care – We contribute towards eye tests and lenses for Display Screen Equipment
  • Mental Health Support – Our mental health first aiders are trained to identify, understand, and help employees experiencing mental health issues
  • Support and Counselling Services – Access free 24-hour confidential advice and counselling as well as a legal advice service for you and your immediate family
• Commute with Ease
  • Travel Support – Make your daily commute easier with our season ticket loans and free car parking. We also provide bicycle parking, lockers, and showers at the Civic Centre

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Statement

At the London Borough of Hillingdon, we are committed to creating a diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplace. This commitment means that all employees, job applicants and others who work for us will be treated fairly. The aim is for our workforce to be representative of all sections of society and Hillingdon residents so we welcome applicants from a wide variety of backgrounds. We strive to ensure that our recruitment process is free from discrimination and bias, and we are dedicated to providing reasonable adjustments to applicants with disabilities. Join us in building a workplace where everyone feels respected, able to give their best and be themselves at work, whilst contributing meaningfully to our organisation's success.

Due to an expected high volume of applications, we could close this role early, we therefore recommend you apply as soon as possible to avoid disappointment. Closing date: 26 May 2025.