At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic planning initiatives and drive sustainable growth in Salford.
- Company: Dynamic city council focused on inclusive and thriving communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and the chance to shape a vibrant city.
- Other info: Join a purpose-driven team committed to creating high-quality places.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on urban development and environmental enhancement.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in planning, environment, and heritage programmes.
We’re seeking a highly accomplished and strategic leader with a proven track record of delivering complex planning, environment and climate change, and heritage programmes. You bring the credibility and confidence to shape place‑based policy, articulate compelling visions, and lead major initiatives from concept through to delivery, unlocking investment, promoting environmental enhancement and transforming places.
You have significant experience of driving forward strategic planning programmes and projects, including statutory Local Plans and providing support to wider regeneration and growth activities. You should have experience and expertise in preparing the necessary evidence base to support sustainable growth plans and can incorporate an understanding of practical challenges to ensure sustainable delivery is enabled.
You are able to integrate policy aims relating to development, environment and heritage to underpin the positive evolution of Salford into a diverse, inclusive, and thriving city. You excel at building and sustaining relationships and influential partnerships across the public and private sectors, including developers, communities, investors, landowners and delivery partners.
You foster positive relationships with politicians, based on mutual respect and confidence in your counsel. Politically astute and technically aware, you navigate complex environments with confidence, negotiating outcomes that maximise long‑term place value. You communicate with clarity and authority, aligning diverse stakeholders behind ambitious development and regeneration objectives.
You are able to foster positive relationships with politicians and can effectively advocate for the most appropriate strategic approaches to this audience. You combine strategic insight with strong analytical capability, using data, technical and market intelligence and spatial analysis to identify opportunities to achieve policy aims and are committed to seeing these turned into delivered projects.
You have a demonstrable ability to originate and manage a robust pipeline of projects to support environment and climate change and heritage objectives, aligning these with funding streams, infrastructure investment, and wider spatial priorities. You bring a sophisticated understanding of regional governance and the wider policy landscape, including the role of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, its devolved powers, and the operation of funding and delivery mechanisms across the city region.
You are confident leveraging this landscape to develop a supportive policy context for Salford and to ensure the city maximises public investment benefitting the city. Above all, you are purpose‑driven passionate about creating high‑quality places and delivering inclusive, sustainable growth. You are committed to positioning Salford as a leading, forward‑thinking city, comprised of thriving, sustainable, and growing communities. Importantly, you put this commitment at the core of planning, environmental, and heritage activity.
If you have completed the GM Elevate Leadership Development Programme within the last 2 years, please indicate this within the ‘About You’ or ‘Supporting Statement’ section of your application.
Head of Planning (Policy) in Swinton employer: Salford Council
As a leading employer in Salford, we pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture that empowers our employees to drive meaningful change in urban planning and environmental policy. With a strong commitment to professional development, we offer extensive growth opportunities and support for innovative projects that enhance the city's sustainability and heritage. Join us to be part of a dynamic team dedicated to transforming Salford into a thriving, diverse community while enjoying the unique advantages of working in a vibrant city environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Planning (Policy) in Swinton
✨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 Salford 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 Salford Council and can help you get your foot in the door for these full-time public sector roles.
✨Stay Updated with Government Initiatives
Keep your finger on the pulse regarding new government projects and policies. Understanding current initiatives can give you a leg up in interviews, showing that you are informed and genuinely interested in making a difference in the public sector.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Planning (Policy) in Swinton
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 Salford 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 Salford Council
✨Get to Know Public Sector Values
Before your interview with Salford 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 Salford Council.
