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- Tasks: Lead the licensing team, managing applications and enforcement across various sectors.
- Company: Join Southwark, London's largest social landlord, committed to equality and community-led change.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, inclusive culture, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a vibrant community while supporting local businesses and public safety.
- Qualifications: Experience in licensing law, staff management, and strong communication skills are essential.
- Other info: Guaranteed interviews for specific groups; we value diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 49000 £ per year.
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Why Southwark?
Southwark is a vibrant, diverse, and ambitious borough at the heart of London. As the capital’s largest social landlord, we manage 55,000 homes, home to 40% of our residents. We\’re proud to support over 18,300 businesses, from landmark venues to local enterprises, and serve a young and growing population.
Why Southwark?
Southwark is a vibrant, diverse, and ambitious borough at the heart of London. As the capital’s largest social landlord, we manage 55,000 homes, home to 40% of our residents. We\’re proud to support over 18,300 businesses, from landmark venues to local enterprises, and serve a young and growing population.
At Southwark, our work is underpinned by a strong commitment to equality, fairness, and community-led change. Our Southwark Stands Together initiative brings residents and staff together to address racism, injustice and inequality and our Borough Plan ensures we deliver for all communities with integrity and ambition.
This is your chance to join a council that is bold, forward-thinking, and driven by social impact.
What You\’ll Be Doing
An exciting opportunity has arisen in our Licensing Team for a Principal Enforcement Officer to lead the delivery of our commercial licensing service covering applications, enforcement, and policy implementation.
You’ll be responsible for a wide range of licensing areas, including:
- Sale of alcohol and public entertainment
- Gambling premises
- Special treatment premises
- Civil wedding venues
- Animal welfare licensing
- Fireworks and explosives
You’ll manage a skilled team of officers, oversee complex enforcement cases, and work closely with internal departments, external agencies, and community stakeholders. This is a senior role where your regulatory knowledge, leadership and judgement will shape how we support local businesses and protect public safety including overseeing the Nighttime Economy Police and Council service.
What We\’re Looking For
We’re looking for an experienced and driven regulatory professional with significant expertise in licensing law, policy and enforcement. You’ll be confident managing contentious issues, interpreting complex legislation and working across services to deliver high standards of customer care.
Key Qualities And Experience We’re Seeking
- Substantial knowledge of licensing legislation and regulatory frameworks
- Experience managing or supervising staff and supporting their development
- Proven ability to handle legal documentation and enforcement casework
- Skilled in partnership working, decision-making and problem-solving
- A clear communicator with confidence to represent the council at hearings and meetings
This role, ideal for someone ready to make a strong, immediate impact. If you thrive in a fast-paced regulatory environment and are passionate about public service, we’d love to hear from you.
Additional Information
Closing date: Sunday 10 August 2025
Interviews: W/c 25 August 2025
Guaranteed Interview Scheme
As part of our commitment to inclusion, we offer guaranteed interviews for specific groups of people. To qualify, you\’ll need to meet the minimum requirements for the role, and identify with one of the below criteria:
- Members of the Armed Forces and veterans
- Are currently in care, or have previously been in care
- If you consider yourself to be disabled or if you have a long-term health condition
We are an organisation who is passionate about our people and understands that richness of diversity is a requirement to provide the best possible services to our communities. This is demonstrated through our council-wide ambitious commitment to tackle racial inequality in our communities and workforce through our Southwark Stands Together programme . We particularly welcome applications from members of the Black, Asian and ethnic minority communities to increase representation at senior management level in the Council.
Attachments
- Click here to view the Job description and Person specification
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Principal Licensing Officer employer: Southwark Council
Contact Detail:
Southwark Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Licensing Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific licensing laws and regulations relevant to Southwark. Understanding local legislation will not only help you in interviews but also demonstrate your commitment to the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the licensing field, especially those who work within local councils. Engaging with current employees can provide insights into the council's culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during the interview process.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing teams and handling contentious issues. Be ready to share specific examples that highlight your leadership skills and ability to navigate complex regulatory environments.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the Southwark Stands Together initiative and be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to its goals. Showing alignment with the council's commitment to equality and community-led change will set you apart as a candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Licensing Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Principal Licensing Officer position. Understand the key responsibilities and required skills, especially in licensing law and regulatory frameworks.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in licensing, enforcement, and team management. Use specific examples that demonstrate your expertise in handling legal documentation and complex casework.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for public service and your understanding of Southwark's commitment to equality and community-led change. Mention how your values align with their mission and how you can contribute to their goals.
Prepare for Interviews: If selected for an interview, prepare by reviewing common questions related to licensing legislation and enforcement. Be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you handle contentious issues, as well as your approach to partnership working.
How to prepare for a job interview at Southwark Council
✨Know Your Licensing Legislation
Make sure you have a solid understanding of licensing laws and regulations relevant to the role. Brush up on key legislation, especially around alcohol sales, public entertainment, and gambling, as these will likely come up during your interview.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Licensing Officer, you'll be managing a team. Be prepared to discuss your experience in leading teams, supporting staff development, and how you've handled contentious issues in the past. Use specific examples to illustrate your leadership style.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Expect questions that assess your decision-making and problem-solving skills. Think of scenarios where you've successfully navigated complex enforcement cases or worked collaboratively with various stakeholders to achieve a positive outcome.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Effective communication is key in this role, especially when representing the council at hearings. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently, and be ready to discuss how you would handle difficult conversations or negotiations.
