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- Tasks: Lead complex planning projects and influence development in Kent.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council dedicated to sustainable community growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy a hybrid work model with flexibility and competitive salary.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on infrastructure and growth while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Relevant degree and eligibility for Chartered Membership required.
- Other info: Apply soon; closing date may change based on candidate applications.
The predicted salary is between 42700 - 48200 £ per year.
We are looking for an ambitious, organised and highly motivated Planner who is looking for a new challenge in Kent, shaping and influencing development in the County. This post in the Planning Applications Group will focus on County Planning matters relating to mineral and waste development and will support capacity in relation to applications for the County Council’s own development applications for community development.
We are looking for an experienced Officer as you will deal with some of our most complex development planning matters. You will present reports to Members and attend Committee for applications, submissions, and planning matters that you and others in the Planning Applications Group have dealt with. You will also supervise, train and coach staff, review and sign off work carried out by others within the Group.
You will have experience of dealing with a wide range of complex major development, EIA and appropriate assessment developments. You will also have experience as an expert witness for planning inquiries. You’ll be able to respond to challenge and have political awareness within the development management role.
You will have a thorough understanding of the responsibilities of the County Council in the development management process and the contribution to sustainable development, and of the current and emerging planning legislation, policy and guidance and the implications for working practice.
This post requires a relevant degree (or equivalent), as detailed in the person specification. Eligibility for Chartered Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute is required. This role is subject to holding a Full UK Driving Licence – The Council is committed to making reasonable adjustments so whilst this job requires the jobholder to drive your application will still be considered if you are unable to drive due to a disability.
The successful candidate for the post will demonstrate a proven ability to work within a complex and varied environment. Your innovative and flexible approach will enable you to successfully meet outcomes and will make an impact on planning, infrastructure, and growth in Kent.
We operate in a hybrid model of office-based working in Kent and working from home to meet the needs of the service. Please refer to the job description/person specification as this will be used to shortlist applications.
This post is considered by KCC 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/Welsh sufficient for the effective performance of the job requirements. The appropriate standards are set out in the Job Description/Person Specification.
Please note - if you are interested, please apply soon as possible as the closing date for this advert may be earlier than stated should a number of suitably qualified candidates apply.
For an informal discussion about this post, please contact: Sharon Thompson, Head of Planning Applications Group, 03000413468.
Closing date: 13 June 2025.
Principal Planning Officer - Development Management employer: The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited
Contact Detail:
The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer - Development Management
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the current planning legislation and policies relevant to Kent. Understanding local issues and how they impact development will help you stand out during discussions and interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the planning sector, especially those who have experience with mineral and waste development. Engaging with industry events or forums can provide insights and connections that may benefit your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience as an expert witness in planning inquiries. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've navigated complex development matters and the outcomes of your involvement.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your leadership skills by highlighting any previous experience in supervising or training staff. Show how your innovative approach has led to successful project outcomes in your past roles.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer - Development Management
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Thoroughly read the job description and person specification for the Principal Planning Officer position. Make sure you understand the key responsibilities, required qualifications, and the skills needed to excel in this role.
Tailor Your CV: Customise your CV to highlight relevant experience in development management, particularly with complex major developments and EIA. Emphasise your supervisory skills and any experience as an expert witness, as these are crucial for this position.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your motivation for applying and how your background aligns with the role. Mention specific examples of your past work that demonstrate your ability to handle complex planning matters and your understanding of current planning legislation.
Prepare for Potential Questions: Anticipate questions related to your experience in planning, your approach to managing staff, and your understanding of sustainable development. Be ready to discuss how you would handle challenges in the role and your political awareness in development management.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Planner Jobs Redactive Publishing Limited
✨Understand the Role Thoroughly
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the responsibilities outlined in the job description. Familiarise yourself with the complexities of development planning, especially regarding mineral and waste development, as this will be crucial during your interview.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect to be asked about your experience with complex major developments and EIA processes. Brush up on relevant legislation and policies, as well as your past experiences as an expert witness, to demonstrate your expertise.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since the role involves supervising and coaching staff, be ready to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. Highlight any training or mentoring experiences.
✨Demonstrate Political Awareness
Given the nature of the role, it's important to show that you understand the political landscape surrounding development management. Be prepared to discuss how you would navigate challenges and engage with stakeholders effectively.
