At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a team in Strategic Planning and Development for impactful local projects.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council dedicated to community growth and development.
- Benefits: Attractive salary, flexible working hours, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic role with travel across Moray and a focus on teamwork.
- Why this job: Shape the future of your community while developing your leadership skills.
- Qualifications: Minimum 3 years in Development Plans and a degree in Town Planning required.
The predicted salary is between 59170 - 59170 £ per year.
To lead and supervise a team engaged in Strategic Planning and Development in accordance with the preparation and implementation of the Local Development Plan, Developer Obligations, Economic Strategy and Projects.
Responsibilities
- To be responsible for the day to day leadership and supervision of Officers engaged in the Local Development Plan, Developer Obligations, Economic Strategy and Projects including regeneration and placemaking within the context of structures, plans and procedures developed for the Strategic Planning and Development Service, Statutory Responsibilities and Regulation.
- To provide a professional service for the Council, staff and the public in the preparation and delivery of Development Plans, Economic Strategy, Developer Obligations, Projects and the facilitation of development.
- To obtain authority for and then make decisions under Delegated Authority.
The Individual
- Significant experience of Development Plans (3 years minimum post MRTPI).
- Leadership or Supervision of Development Plans, Developer Obligations or other Planning staff.
- Experience in Developer Obligations and/or understanding of infrastructure requirements to support the delivery of Local Development Plans.
- A degree in Town Planning.
- Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute.
- Evidence of continuing professional development.
- Effective presentation and negotiation skills.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills.
- Numeracy.
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Office including Word and Powerpoint.
- Understanding of Local Government/Planning issues.
- Effective organisational and time management skills.
- Analytical abilities.
- Ability to interpret and apply Planning Legislation and Policies, and use judgement.
- Report Writing.
You will be expected to travel efficiently and effectively between various work locations within Moray to meet the operational requirements of the Service. Due to the rural nature of Moray this is normally undertaken by use of a car/van.
- Proven ability to plan and manage own workload.
- Effective negotiation skills.
- Working on long term plans.
- Teamwork, Team Leadership.
- Ability to relate well to Customers.
- Flexibility.
- Ability to form productive working relationships.
- Self-motivated and ability to motivate staff.
- Self-confidence.
- Appreciation, acceptance and commitment to the importance of confidentiality.
- Ability to work flexibly to meet the needs and demands of the service.
- Ability to work in an open plan office.
- Ability to work in different offices dependent on service requirements.
Closing Date: 12 June 2026
Starting Salary: £59,170.15 £31.39 per hour 36.25 hours per week
Interviews to be held: week commencing 22 June 2026
For further information contact: Eily Webster, Service Manager – Strategic Planning
Principal Planning Officer - MOR11891 employer: Moray Council
As a Principal Planning Officer with our Council, you will be part of a dynamic team dedicated to shaping the future of Moray through strategic planning and development. We offer a supportive work culture that values professional growth, providing opportunities for continuing development and leadership within a collaborative environment. Enjoy the unique advantage of working in a picturesque rural setting, where your contributions directly impact the community and its development.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer - MOR11891
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to professionals in the planning field, attend local events, and connect with people on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the council's current projects and challenges. Show us that you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your knowledge of their work and how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! As a Principal Planning Officer, you'll need to communicate effectively. Grab a friend or family member and run through your ideas and strategies to get comfortable presenting.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer - MOR11891
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with Development Plans and Developer Obligations. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant achievements!
Show Off Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading a team, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've successfully supervised or motivated teams in the past. We love to see how you can inspire others!
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key! Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate well-organised applications that are easy to read and get straight to the point.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Moray Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Development Plans and Developer Obligations. Familiarise yourself with the Local Development Plan and any recent projects in Moray. This will show that you're not just a candidate, but someone who genuinely understands the role and its impact.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a team, be prepared to discuss your leadership style and experiences. Think of specific examples where you've successfully supervised or motivated a team, especially in planning contexts. This will help demonstrate your capability to lead effectively.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving and decision-making skills. Prepare for scenarios related to planning legislation and policies, and think about how you would handle various challenges. This will showcase your analytical abilities and judgement.
✨Communicate Clearly
Effective communication is key in this role. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing. You might even want to prepare a short presentation on a relevant topic to demonstrate your presentation skills during the interview.
