At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning initiatives for minerals and waste, shaping policies that impact Devon's future.
- Company: Join Devon County Council, a forward-thinking authority committed to positive change.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to diversity.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in your community while developing your planning expertise.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills required.
The predicted salary is between 45091 - 49282 £ per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen to join Devon County Council as a Principal Planning Officer within our planning team. This is a pivotal role at a time of significant change and opportunity.
Devon County Council is an ambitious authority and is looking for a highly skilled, experienced and passionate Principal Planning Officer that shares the vision to make a difference for everyone within Devon. We have a strong, experienced and supportive planning team at Devon County Council, which you will immediately feel part of. The planning team has a key role in planning for minerals and waste, supporting development and delivering infrastructure whilst also ensuring that we respond positively to Devon County Council’s climate emergency declaration.
As a Principal Planning Officer, your role will depend on your experience and needs of the team. You’ll work in a dynamic and unique team where individuals work across all areas of planning including policy, development management and infrastructure delivery. As the team prepares to commence a new Minerals and Waste Plan, it is expected that the role will have a minerals and waste policy focus and you will play a key role in the development of the new Minerals and Waste Plan.
We are looking for someone who combines planning knowledge with strong organisational, leadership and communication skills. You will be confident working in a political environment, building trusted relationships and explaining complex issues clearly to diverse audiences – including communities, stakeholders and councillors. Just as importantly, you will be motivated by making a real difference to places and people, and help foster a positive, inclusive working culture where people are supported to develop and deliver their best work.
For an informal discussion please contact Sarah Ratnage at sarah.ratnage@devon.gov.uk or Emily Harper at emily.harper@devon.gov.uk.
Interview Date: Expected 6th July 2026
How to apply: Please ensure when completing your application form that you provide a supporting statement which demonstrates how you meet the essential and desirable criteria as described in the person specification of the job description. Applications may not be taken forwards if the supporting statement is not adequately completed. To apply please click on the 'apply button'.
Internal Applicants, please note: If you are an existing DCC employee, please use your iTrent Employee Self Service (ESS) details to log in and apply.
DCC embraces the positive benefits of a diverse workforce and is committed to providing an environment that is inclusive and safe. We welcome applications from people who share our commitment to stop discrimination, challenge inequality and promote diversity across Devon. More information can be found on our Equality and Diversity webpages.
Happy to Talk Flexible Working - The Council offers flexible working arrangements in terms of when and where people work e.g. hybrid working, part-time, condensed hours etc.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This role requires the ability to fulfil all spoken aspects of the role with confidence and fluency in English.
Personal data we collect from you will be processed in accordance with the Applicant privacy notice. For more information about Working for Devon please visit our Working for Devon page. We cannot consider visa sponsorship at this time. UK Right to Work is required. For further guidance on right to work in the UK, please visit: Work in the UK - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk).
Closing date 18th June 2026
Senior Planning & Policy Lead – Minerals & Waste in Exeter employer: The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited
Devon County Council is an exceptional employer that prioritises a supportive and inclusive work culture, making it an ideal place for professionals passionate about planning and policy. With a strong focus on employee development and flexible working arrangements, the council empowers its staff to make a meaningful impact on the community while fostering a collaborative environment. Join us in shaping the future of Devon as we tackle significant challenges and opportunities in minerals and waste management.
Contact Details:
The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning & Policy Lead – Minerals & Waste in Exeter
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Devon County Council on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can give us insider info about the team and the role, plus it shows our genuine interest.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in minerals and waste planning. We want to impress them with our knowledge and passion for the field, so let’s show we’re up-to-date and ready to contribute!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our communication skills! Since this role involves explaining complex issues to diverse audiences, let’s rehearse how we’d break down technical jargon into simple terms. It’ll make us stand out as a clear communicator.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can tailor our supporting statement to highlight how we meet the essential and desirable criteria they’re looking for.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning & Policy Lead – Minerals & Waste in Exeter
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Skills:When you're writing your application, make sure to highlight your planning knowledge and experience. Use specific examples that demonstrate how you've tackled similar challenges in the past, especially in minerals and waste policy.
Tailor Your Supporting Statement:Your supporting statement is crucial! Make it personal and directly address the essential and desirable criteria mentioned in the job description. This is your chance to shine, so don’t hold back on showing how you fit the role.
Keep It Clear and Concise:While we love detail, clarity is key! Avoid jargon and keep your language straightforward. Remember, you’ll be explaining complex issues to diverse audiences, so practice that skill in your application.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the team!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of minerals and waste planning. Familiarise yourself with Devon County Council's current policies and the upcoming Minerals and Waste Plan. This will show that you're not just interested in the role, but that you’re genuinely invested in making a difference in the community.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
As a Principal Planning Officer, you'll need to explain complex issues clearly. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully communicated with diverse audiences, including stakeholders and councillors. This will demonstrate your ability to build trusted relationships and navigate a political environment.
✨Highlight Your Leadership Experience
Think about times when you've led a project or team. Be ready to discuss how you motivated others, managed conflicts, and ensured everyone was working towards a common goal. This is crucial for fostering a positive and inclusive working culture within the planning team.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the team dynamics, the challenges they face, and how they measure success. This not only shows your interest in the role but also helps you gauge if this is the right fit for you.
