At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning policy and development teams to shape the future of Uttlesford.
- Company: Uttlesford District Council, a family-friendly employer committed to work-life balance.
- Benefits: Generous leave, pension scheme, leisure discounts, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive employer welcoming applications from all backgrounds, with guaranteed interviews for eligible candidates.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local communities and contribute to exciting strategic priorities.
- Qualifications: Experience in policy planning, strong leadership, and excellent communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Uttlesford is a unique district, with Saffron Walden voted the country’s “Best Place to Live 2025”. It is also home to the expanding London Stansted Airport, and picture-postcard market towns and villages. Our Planning Service has experienced a significant transformation over the past two years. Our Development Management and Building Control Teams are thriving, high-performing, and fully staffed. We have just taken our local plan through examination and expect to adopt it in early 2026. This is your chance to contribute to the continued success of the Planning Service, our emerging policy framework, and the future of the district itself.
We are seeking an experienced and forward-thinking policy planner to lead our Local Plans, Planning Specialists, and Economic Development Teams. This is an exciting leadership role for a development professional with a strong background in policy, either in local government or consultancy.
You will manage a team of up to 12 skilled officers across a range of disciplines including planning policy, urban design, transport policy, and economic development. Your leadership will be key as we progress a number of strategic priorities over the next 12–18 months, including the introduction of a Community Infrastructure Levy, delivery of key Development Plan Documents, and a refresh of our Supplementary Planning Documents, including our district-wide Design Code. You will also support our Parishes deliver and refresh their neighbourhood plans.
Collaboration is central to this role. You will work closely with neighbouring authorities, parish councils, and Essex County Council on joint initiatives, so strong interpersonal and networking skills are essential.
We’re looking for someone who is self-motivated, analytical, and an excellent communicator. You’ll be confident deputising for the Strategic Director of Planning when required and supportive of the professional development of others, especially our graduate planners.
Uttlesford District Council is a family friendly Council. We encourage and support our employees to have a healthy work life balance as well as offering a range of benefits including generous annual leave, plus bank holidays (pro-rata), leisure centre discounts, membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme and an online platform offering discounts from online retailers.
For an informal discussion please contact Dean Hermitage, Strategic Director of Planning on 01799 510601
To find out more and apply please visit https://www.uttlesford.gov.uk/jobs-careers
Closing date for completed applications is Sunday 28 September 2025
It is intended that interviews will be held week commencing 13 October 2025.
CVs will not be accepted.
Uttlesford District Council is an inclusive employer, and we welcome applications from all. We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and a Fostering Friendly Employer and proud to support our Care Leavers and the Armed Forces Covenant. Anyone disclosing a disability or is a Care leaver or is a member of the Armed Forces community (Veteran/Service leaver, Reserve Forces, or their Spouses/Partners or Cadet Force Adult Volunteer) whose application meets the essential criteria for the post will be guaranteed an interview. #J-18808-LjbffrHead of Planning Policy and New Communties employer: Uttlesford District Council
Uttlesford District Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and family-friendly work environment that prioritises a healthy work-life balance. With generous benefits such as ample annual leave, leisure centre discounts, and a commitment to professional development, employees are empowered to thrive in their roles. This leadership position not only allows you to shape the future of a vibrant district but also fosters collaboration with local communities and authorities, making it a truly rewarding opportunity.
Contact Details:
Uttlesford District Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Planning Policy and New Communties
✨Network Like a Pro
Get out there and connect with people in the planning and development field. Attend local events, join relevant online forums, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. Building relationships can open doors that a CV just can’t.
✨Show Off Your Skills
When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your leadership experience and your knack for collaboration. Share specific examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past. We want to see your passion for planning policy shine through!
✨Research the Council
Before any interviews, do your homework on Uttlesford District Council. Understand their recent projects, challenges, and future plans. This will not only impress them but also help you tailor your responses to show how you can contribute to their goals.
✨Apply Through Our Website
Don’t forget to apply directly through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of our team at Uttlesford District Council.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Planning Policy and New Communties
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of Planning Policy and New Communities role. Highlight your relevant experience in policy planning and leadership, showing us how you can contribute to our exciting projects.
Showcase Your Collaboration Skills:Since collaboration is key in this role, don’t forget to mention your experience working with various stakeholders like local councils and community groups. We want to see how you’ve successfully navigated partnerships in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to convey your ideas effectively. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and enthusiasm.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to submit your application through our official website. This ensures that we receive all the necessary information in the right format. Plus, it’s the best way to stay updated on your application status!
How to prepare for a job interview at Uttlesford District Council
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest planning policies and local government practices. Brush up on Uttlesford's recent developments, especially the local plan and community infrastructure initiatives. This will show your genuine interest and expertise in the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past. Highlight your experience in managing diverse groups and driving projects forward. Be ready to discuss how you can support the professional development of others, particularly graduate planners.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since collaboration is key for this role, think of instances where you’ve worked with various stakeholders, such as local councils or community groups. Be prepared to discuss how you can foster strong relationships with neighbouring authorities and other partners.
✨Communicate Clearly
As an excellent communicator, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Prepare to answer questions about complex planning issues in a straightforward manner. This will demonstrate your ability to communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical audiences.
