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- Tasks: Lead major planning applications and shape significant developments in the borough.
- Company: Join a dynamic Development Management service with a focus on strategic sites.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, professional development opportunities, and a supportive management team.
- Other info: Work in a politically sensitive environment with excellent career growth potential.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on high-profile projects while mentoring and leading a talented team.
- Qualifications: Degree in Planning, RTPI membership, and experience with complex applications required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
We are seeking an experienced and motivated Principal Planning Officer to join our Development Management service, working within the Strategic Sites team. This is a key professional role, leading on complex, high‑profile and major planning applications from pre‑application stage through to determination and delivery on site. You will play a pivotal part in shaping significant development across the borough, working closely with developers, elected members, communities and partner organisations to secure high‑quality and sustainable outcomes. Reporting to the Development Lead, you will also provide support and leadership within the team, acting as a deputy when required and contributing to service performance and improvement.
Key responsibilities
- Lead on major, complex and high‑profile planning applications, including strategic sites
- Project manage development proposals from pre‑application through determination and delivery
- Prepare and present reports to Planning Committee and advise elected members
- Negotiate with developers to maximise community benefits, including affordable housing and infrastructure contributions
- Provide paid pre‑application advice on major and complex schemes
- Make delegated decisions in line with the Council’s Scheme of Delegation
- Represent the Council at appeals, hearings and public inquiries, acting as expert witness where required
- Build and maintain effective relationships with councillors, applicants, agents, residents and statutory consultees
- Support, mentor and line‑manage planning officers as required
- Ensure decisions are robust, defensible and aligned with national and local planning policy
About you
You will be a confident and experienced planning professional with a strong track record in development management and major applications. You will be comfortable operating in a politically sensitive environment, balancing competing priorities and delivering high‑quality outcomes. Essential requirements include:
- Degree in Planning or a related discipline
- Full Chartered Membership of the RTPI (or the ability to achieve this within the probationary period)
- Significant experience of dealing with complex and major planning applications
- Strong negotiation, analytical and decision‑making skills
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Experience of presenting at committee and/or representing an authority at appeal
- A commitment to customer service, equality and continuous improvement
Benefits
- Hybrid and flexible working arrangements
- A supportive and experienced management team
- Opportunities for professional development and CPD
- The opportunity to work on strategic and high‑impact development projects
Principal Planning Officer in Godalming employer: Waverley Borough Council
Contact Detail:
Waverley Borough Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Planning Officer in Godalming
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the planning field. Attend local events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to professionals on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its recent projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in leading complex planning applications. Show them you’re not just another candidate, but the right fit for their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! Since you'll need to present reports and advise elected members, being articulate and confident is key. Grab a friend or family member and run through your pitch – it’ll help you feel more at ease when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got some fantastic opportunities waiting for you, and applying directly shows your enthusiasm. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves!
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer in Godalming
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with complex and major planning applications. We want to see how your skills align with the key responsibilities mentioned in the job description.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent written communication is a must, ensure your application is clear and concise. We love a well-structured application that reflects your ability to prepare and present reports effectively.
Highlight Your Leadership Experience: As a Principal Planning Officer, you'll be supporting and mentoring others. Don’t forget to mention any leadership roles you've had, as we value candidates who can contribute to team performance and improvement.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Waverley Borough Council
✨Know Your Planning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest planning policies and legislation relevant to the role. Being able to discuss recent case studies or high-profile applications will show your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Planning Officer, you'll need to lead and mentor others. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in the past, highlighting your ability to support and guide colleagues while achieving results.
✨Master the Art of Negotiation
Negotiation is key in this role, so think of specific instances where you've successfully negotiated outcomes that benefited both the community and developers. Be ready to discuss your approach and techniques during the interview.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Since you'll be presenting reports and representing the council, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Consider doing mock presentations to friends or family to build your confidence and refine your delivery.