At a Glance
- Tasks: Drive the Local Plan and shape policies that impact your community.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking council dedicated to innovation and collaboration.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, professional development, and a supportive workplace.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in creating vibrant, sustainable places for people.
- Qualifications: Degree in Town Planning and experience in planning policy required.
- Other info: Be part of a high-performing team with excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
As a Senior Planning Policy Officer, you'll be at the heart of our Local Plan delivery, progressing policies and evidence for the new Local Plan, as well as involvement on other key projects. You'll collaborate with colleagues across the council, community groups, developers, partner organisations, and residents to ensure our planning policies reflect local aspirations and deliver real impact. This is a role where your ideas will be heard, your expertise valued, and your work will genuinely make a difference.
Do you want to help create vibrant, sustainable, and resilient places for people to live, work, and thrive? Are you excited by the idea of steering major planning policy projects and championing innovation in a dynamic, forward-thinking council? You’ll bring passion, professionalism, and a positive, solutions-focused approach, with the confidence to lead on projects, the curiosity to explore new ideas, and the communication skills to explain complex planning matters with clarity.
What You'll Be Doing
- Driving forward the Local Plan, contributing to its preparation, implementation, and monitoring.
- Drafting high-quality reports, policy documents, and guidance that influence decision-making at all levels.
- Representing the council at key meetings, public inquiries, exhibitions, and stakeholder events.
- Providing expert planning policy advice to Members, colleagues, and the wider public.
- Keeping ahead of planning legislation and policy changes, ensuring our service remains responsive, modern, and effective.
Requirements
- A degree in Town Planning (or related discipline) and RTPI membership.
- Proven post-qualification experience in planning policy.
- Strong analytical, negotiation, and presentation skills.
- The ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team.
- A commitment to excellence, equality, integrity, and customer-focused service.
Organisation and Culture
Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council is looking for a motivated, enthusiastic, and forward-thinking Senior Planning Policy Officer to join our high-performing Planning Policy team. This is your chance to play a leading role in shaping the future of our borough.
A supportive, friendly workplace where your contribution truly matters. Opportunities for continuous professional development and career growth. A culture that values innovation, collaboration, and new ideas. Flexible working options and a strong focus on wellbeing.
Benefits
Discover what it's like to work at Tonbridge and Malling Borough Council and explore the benefits we offer. The successful applicant will receive a one-off golden hello.
Senior Planning Officer - Policy in Kings Hill employer: Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Officer - Policy in Kings Hill
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council on LinkedIn. Ask them about their experiences and any tips they might have for landing the Senior Planning Policy Officer role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for your interview by brushing up on local planning policies and recent projects in the borough. Show us that you’re not just passionate but also knowledgeable about the community you want to serve.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You’ll need to explain complex planning matters clearly, so consider doing mock presentations with friends or family to build your confidence.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Officer - Policy in Kings Hill
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for planning policy shine through. We want to see how excited you are about creating vibrant and sustainable places. Share specific examples of projects or policies that inspire you!
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the job description. Highlight your relevant experience in planning policy and how it aligns with our goals at Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council. We love seeing how your skills can contribute to our team!
Be Clear and Concise: We appreciate clarity! When drafting your reports or policy documents, keep your language straightforward and to the point. Avoid jargon where possible, and make sure your ideas are easy to understand. This will show us your communication skills right from the start.
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 the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do and the benefits we offer.
How to prepare for a job interview at Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council
✨Know Your Local Plan Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the current Local Plan and any recent developments in planning policy. This will not only show your commitment but also allow you to discuss how your ideas can contribute to its success.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working with various stakeholders, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in the past. Highlight your communication skills and how you’ve navigated complex discussions to achieve positive outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Your Analytical Skills
Be ready to discuss specific instances where your analytical abilities have led to effective policy recommendations. Use data or case studies to back up your points, showing that you can think critically about planning issues.
✨Express Your Passion for Sustainable Development
Convey your enthusiasm for creating vibrant and sustainable communities. Share your vision for how planning policies can reflect local aspirations and make a real difference, aligning your values with those of the council.