At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning strategy and infrastructure projects in a fast-growing borough.
- Company: Join Dartford, a vibrant and innovative local government.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous leave, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Convenient location with excellent transport links and career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on community development and infrastructure investment.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning strategy and strong analytical skills required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you in planning strategy or infrastructure and seek an influential new senior role? Or are you currently in local government development management with strategic and political skills and experience, and are looking for a fresh challenge? Join Dartford, the second fastest growing Borough in the country, and take the lead. We are looking to sustain our high growth and deliver our up-to-date Local Plan through new supporting policy and infrastructure, and maximising benefits from our multi-million pound CIL funding.
You will have in-depth planning strategy and infrastructure planning expertise, through significant statutory Plan preparation experience, infrastructure policy work or suitable strategic public sector development management experience. Dartford is the Kent Borough adjoining London on the River Thames. The area is both urban and rural, including Ebbsfleet Garden City and Bluewater shopping centre, but also marshland, heath, and Ancient Woodland. Dartford (alongside Arup) is the proud RTPI Silver Jubilee Cup award winner for the Lower Darent Riverside Strategy.
We are looking for an innovative and flexible thinker keen for a challenge in a positive and integrated Planning & Place division. Demonstrable experience of policy-based decisions on large scale infrastructure investment or developer contribution expenditure prioritisation is required. Substantial knowledge of national planning policy/ local plan legislation and reform is necessary. You will have strong quantitative, analytical and written capabilities, a creative approach to problem solving and good leadership and communication attributes.
You will be managing and working with an enthusiastic team, whilst reporting to and being supported by the Head of Planning Strategy. We offer hybrid working arrangements which seek a balance of home and office-based working. Part-time working arrangements will be considered for the right candidate, please call if you wish to discuss your circumstances.
Conveniently located, the Borough’s connections are more than just the Dartford crossing and M25. Dartford rail station (adjacent to the Council offices) is just 11 minutes travel from the Elizabeth Line, and has Thameslink and direct links to London Charing Cross and Victoria. We have good buses including TfL services and Fastrack rapid transit.
If you would like to speak about this post please contact Mark Aplin, Head of Planning Strategy on 01322 343202. The interview date for this role is: week commencing 13th July 2026.
Benefits:- Hybrid working
- Career average pension scheme
- Generous leave entitlement
- Professional fee payment
- Free on-site parking
- Employee benefits package
This post is considered by DBC to be a customer-facing position. The Council therefore has a statutory duty under Part 7 of the Immigration Act (2016) to ensure that post holders have a command of spoken English sufficient for the effective performance of the job requirements. 37 hours per week, Monday – Friday.
The Council is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
Interested? Please apply via: https://www.dartford.gov.uk/by-category/jobs-and-careers/job-vacancies-at-the-council. Do not send your CV – only fully completed application forms via the link above will be accepted. Closing Date: 28 June 2026. We reserve the right to close this vacancy before the advertised closing date. Please apply early to avoid disappointment.
Planning Strategy Lead in Dartford employer: The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited
Dartford Council is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in one of the UK's fastest-growing boroughs. With a strong commitment to employee development, hybrid working arrangements, and a generous benefits package, including a career average pension scheme and professional fee payment, we foster a culture of innovation and collaboration. Join us in shaping Dartford's future while enjoying convenient transport links and a supportive team atmosphere.
Contact Details:
The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Strategy Lead in Dartford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to folks in your industry, especially those who work in planning strategy or local government. A casual chat can lead to opportunities you might not find on job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Dartford and its recent projects. Show us that you’re not just interested in the role, but also in the community and its growth. Tailor your answers to reflect your understanding of their needs.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership and communication skills. You’ll be managing a team, so being able to articulate your vision clearly is key. Consider mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Dartford team and ready to take on the challenge.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Strategy Lead in Dartford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully:Before you start writing, make sure to thoroughly read the job description. It’s packed with clues about what Dartford is looking for, so highlight key skills and experiences that match your background.
Tailor Your Application:Don’t just send a generic application! We want to see how your unique skills and experiences align with the role of Planning Strategy Lead. Use specific examples from your past work to demonstrate your expertise in planning strategy and infrastructure.
Be Clear and Concise:When filling out the application form, keep your answers clear and to the point. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant, and make sure your writing is easy to understand. We appreciate straightforward communication!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only accept applications through our website. So, make sure to submit your fully completed application form via the link provided. Don’t miss out on this opportunity by sending a CV instead!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Make sure you brush up on national planning policy and local plan legislation before the interview. Understanding the latest reforms and how they impact Dartford will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your communication skills and how you've managed to inspire and motivate others, especially in a public sector context.
✨Be Ready for Problem-Solving Scenarios
Expect to be asked about how you would approach specific challenges related to infrastructure planning. Think of creative solutions you've implemented before and be ready to discuss your analytical process in detail.
✨Understand Dartford's Unique Context
Familiarise yourself with Dartford's urban and rural dynamics, including key areas like Ebbsfleet Garden City and Bluewater. Showing that you understand the local context will demonstrate your commitment to making a positive impact in the community.
