At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the development of walking, wheeling, and cycling networks to transform communities.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking organisation committed to a healthier, greener future.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, remote work options, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Inclusive employer welcoming diverse backgrounds and experiences.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on sustainable travel and community wellbeing in the North East.
- Qualifications: Experience in transport planning and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 60177 - 63715 € per year.
Location: The Lumen, St James' Boulevard, Newcastle upon Tyne, various ‘spoke’ offices throughout the North East and remote working arrangements.
Salary: SM1, £60,177 - £63,715 per annum. (Please note it is North East CA policy to appoint at the starting point of the salary band).
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Closing date: 2nd June 2026 at 23:59
Reporting to: Head of Transport Programmes
Shape the Future of Active Travel Across Our Region
At the heart of the region’s ambitions for a healthier, greener and more connected future, the Principal Transport Planner – Active Travel will lead the strategic development and delivery of walking, wheeling and cycling networks that genuinely transform places and lives. Working at a senior level with local authorities, Active Travel England and key partners, you will play a central role in shaping long‑term regional priorities, embed active travel within transport, regeneration and placemaking agendas, and champion high‑quality, inclusive design.
From policy setting and developing robust evidence bases to influencing major development proposals, you will ensure active travel is a fundamental part of how our region grows and moves. This is a role for an experienced leader who thrives on turning ambition into action. You will oversee a diverse programme of schemes from early concept through to delivery, managing business cases, funding bids, assurance processes and performance outcomes, while demonstrating clear environmental, health and economic benefits.
Alongside this, you will lead and develop a specialist Active Travel team, manage budgets and procurement, and build trusted relationships with transport operators, developers and stakeholders.
If you are a strategic, collaborative and motivated transport professional with strong technical expertise, leadership skills and a passion for inclusive, sustainable travel, we would love to hear from you.
We are proud to be an inclusive employer, and we welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, communities and experiences. We particularly encourage applications from candidates who are underrepresented in senior roles, including women, disabled people, LGBTQ+ people and those from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds.
Principal Transport Planner employer: North East Mayoral Combined Authority (NECA)
As a Principal Transport Planner at The Lumen in Newcastle upon Tyne, you will join a forward-thinking organisation dedicated to creating a healthier and more connected region through active travel initiatives. Our inclusive work culture fosters collaboration and innovation, offering ample opportunities for professional growth while making a tangible impact on the community. With flexible remote working arrangements and a commitment to diversity, we are an excellent employer for those seeking meaningful and rewarding careers in transport planning.
Contact Detail:
North East Mayoral Combined Authority (NECA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Transport Planner
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the transport planning field! Attend industry events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that you didn’t even know existed.
✨Showcase Your Passion
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your enthusiasm for active travel shine through! Share your ideas on how to improve transport systems and make them more inclusive. This will show that you’re not just looking for a job, but that you genuinely care about making a difference.
✨Prepare for Interviews
Do your homework before any interview! Research the company’s projects and values, and think about how your experience aligns with their goals. Be ready to discuss specific examples of your work that demonstrate your leadership skills and technical expertise in transport planning.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to the future of active travel in the North East.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Transport Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your experience in active travel and transport planning. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t hold back on showcasing relevant projects you've worked on!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:As a Principal Transport Planner, leadership is key. Use your application to demonstrate your experience in leading teams and managing projects. Share specific examples of how you've influenced change and driven successful outcomes in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and ensure your passion for sustainable travel shines through. A well-structured application makes it easier for us to see your potential!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application via our website. It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our values there!
How to prepare for a job interview at North East Mayoral Combined Authority (NECA)
✨Know Your Active Travel Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and policies in active travel. Familiarise yourself with local initiatives and how they align with the role. Being able to discuss specific projects or strategies will show your passion and expertise.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Think about times when you influenced stakeholders or managed budgets effectively. This will demonstrate your capability to oversee diverse programmes and lead a specialist team.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
Be ready to discuss how active travel fits into broader transport, regeneration, and placemaking agendas. Show that you can think strategically about how to embed active travel within these frameworks, which is crucial for this role.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Engage with your interviewers by asking insightful questions about their current projects and challenges. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company culture aligns with your values.
