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- Tasks: Lead and mentor junior planners while managing complex planning applications.
- Company: Swale Borough Council, a progressive local authority in Kent.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, generous holiday entitlement, and professional development.
- Why this job: Shape the future of planning while making a real impact in your community.
- Qualifications: Proactive planner with expert knowledge and strong judgement.
- Other info: Flexible working policy and a focus on staff wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 52000 £ per year.
Lead, Mentor, and Make an Impact
For senior planners ready to take the next step, this is a sought‑after chance to combine leadership with hands‑on, complex casework. As Principal Planning Officer, you’ll oversee some of the most challenging planning applications while guiding the next generation of planning professionals.
This isn’t just a technical role – it’s an opportunity to lead with influence. You’ll provide daily mentoring, sign‑off on complex applications, and ensure the service delivers high‑quality, efficient outcomes. You’ll also act as a key expert for householders, developers, and landowners, representing the Council at appeals, inquiries, and in Section 106 negotiations.
Why This Role Stands Out
- Mentorship & Leadership: Develop your leadership experience by supporting and guiding junior staff in a collaborative environment.
- High‑Level Exposure: Manage complex cases and negotiations, while representing the Council at hearings and examinations.
- Total Reward: Competitive Grade 8 salary, hybrid working model (average 2 days in‑office), 34‑hour week and ongoing professional development opportunities.
What We’re Looking For
A proactive, ambitious planner with expert knowledge, excellent judgement, and a commitment to improving outcomes for customers and the community. This is the perfect role for someone ready to grow as a leader without stepping away from the challenging, meaningful work they love.
About Swale Borough Council
Swale Borough Council is a progressive and ambitious Local Authority, located less than an hour from Central London in an attractive and diverse part of Kent involving urban, rural, and coastal areas. We believe that staff are our most valuable asset, and we’re committed to attracting and retaining the very best. In recent times we have adapted and evolved to meet the current world by introducing a highly flexible hybrid working policy, along with a 34‑hour week, recognising that staff wellbeing and work life balance is high on our agenda.
Our Offer
A range of benefits including generous holiday entitlement which increases after 5 years LG service.
Principal Planning Officer (Planning Applications) in London employer: Swale Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Swale Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer (Planning Applications) in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with other planners, attend industry events, and join relevant online forums. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or during interviews, make sure to highlight your experience with complex casework and mentoring. They want to see how you can lead and make an impact in their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Brush up on common interview questions related to planning applications and leadership. Think about your past experiences and how they relate to the role of Principal Planning Officer – this will help you stand out.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining us at Swale Borough Council. It shows initiative and enthusiasm, which are key traits we look for in our future leaders.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer (Planning Applications) in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your leadership skills and experience in handling complex planning cases. We want to see how you can make an impact in this role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your expertise!
Showcase Your Mentorship Experience: Since mentoring is a key part of this role, share examples of how you've guided junior staff or contributed to team development. We love seeing candidates who are passionate about shaping the future of planning professionals.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that get straight to the heart of your experience and qualifications. Remember, clarity is key!
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 this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Swale Borough Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest planning policies and legislation relevant to the role. Being able to discuss complex casework confidently will show that you're not just a planner, but a knowledgeable expert ready to lead.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've mentored or led teams in the past. Highlighting your ability to guide junior staff and manage complex negotiations will demonstrate that you’re ready for this senior position.
✨Understand the Council's Vision
Familiarise yourself with Swale Borough Council’s goals and recent initiatives. Showing that you align with their values and are committed to improving community outcomes will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role and the team dynamics. This not only shows your interest but also gives you a chance to assess if the council's culture aligns with your own values and work style.