At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning policy projects and support the development of local and neighbourhood plans.
- Company: Join an ambitious Council dedicated to enhancing community services and preserving the environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy hybrid working, generous leave, training opportunities, and a supportive work culture.
- Why this job: Make a positive impact on your community while developing your planning expertise.
- Qualifications: Qualified planner with leadership skills and experience in planning policy.
- Other info: Diverse workplace welcoming applicants from all backgrounds; flexible working options available.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you looking for a role that will actively invest in your planning understanding and knowledge of legislation, procedures and guidance relating to planning policy matters? Do you want to bring your excellent professional skills to be a part of an experienced and enthusiastic team preparing a new local plan and supporting the preparation of several Neighbourhood Plans? Do you want to further develop your skills managing planning policy projects and supporting team members?
We are an ambitious Council, always trying to improve the many public services that we provide to our residents. Even more importantly, we aim to help preserve and enhance Waverley’s beautiful and precious environment and make a positive impact on the lives of everybody who lives or works here in Waverley.
The post is a senior role in the planning policy team so the holder will be a qualified planner with strong leadership, creative and organisational skills and experience of leading on specific areas of planning policy including managing external consultants and supporting other members of the team.
This is an agile post which allows the holder to work from home after an initial period of induction at the discretion of their line manager depending on the business needs of the service. This post is a full-time role. However, all applications will be considered.
For an informal discussion about the post, please contact Matthew Ellis, Planning Policy Team Leader or Marissa Nash, Infrastructure Team Leader.
We do not accept CVs without a completed application form. Strictly no agencies please.
Closing date for applications: 9:00am on Monday 2nd March 2026
Interview date: To be confirmed (provisionally set for 18th March 2026)
In return for your valued contribution, we can offer you a competitive benefits package which includes hybrid working and agile working policies, training and development opportunities, generous annual leave and flexi time, free onsite parking, an employee assistance scheme and membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme.
The district is home to many different people, and we want our workforce to reflect our diverse local communities. We encourage and welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences - we are a Disability Confident employer and appoint on merit.
We are proud to have signed the Armed Forces Covenant and welcome applications from serving or ex-members of the armed forces and their partners. We offer an interview scheme for serving and ex-military forces members when they meet the essential criteria for the role.
Please note we do not accept applications after the stated closing time and right to work in the UK will be checked as part of the interview process.
Principal Planning Officer (Policy) 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 (Policy) in Godalming
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the planning sector and let them know you're on the lookout for opportunities. You never know who might have the inside scoop on a role that’s perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the council's recent projects and policies, especially around local plans and neighbourhood planning. This will show you’re genuinely interested and ready to contribute from day one.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t forget to showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss how you've managed teams or projects in the past, especially in planning policy. We want to see how you can lead and inspire others in our ambitious team.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and making a positive impact in Waverley.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planning Officer (Policy) in Godalming
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before you start writing, take a moment to really understand what the Principal Planning Officer role entails. Dive into the job description and highlight key responsibilities and skills that resonate with your experience. This will help you tailor your application to show us why you're the perfect fit!
Be Specific: When detailing your experience, be specific about your achievements and how they relate to planning policy. Use examples that showcase your leadership and organisational skills, especially in managing projects or teams. We want to see how you've made a positive impact in your previous roles!
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for planning and community development shine through in your application. Share why you’re excited about the opportunity to work with Waverley and how you can contribute to enhancing the local environment. We love seeing candidates who are genuinely passionate about making a difference!
Follow the Application Process: Make sure to complete the application form thoroughly and don’t forget to apply through our website! Remember, we don’t accept CVs without a completed application form, so double-check everything before hitting submit. We’re looking forward to seeing your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Waverley Borough Council
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Make sure you brush up on the latest planning legislation and guidance. Familiarise yourself with local plans and neighbourhood plans relevant to Waverley. This will show your commitment and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a senior role, they’ll be looking for strong leadership qualities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led projects or teams in the past, especially in planning policy contexts. Be ready to discuss how you can support and develop team members.
✨Prepare for Agile Working Questions
Since this role offers hybrid working, think about how you manage your time and productivity when working from home. Be prepared to discuss your strategies for staying organised and ensuring effective communication with your team.
✨Engage with Their Values
Waverley Council is focused on improving public services and enhancing the environment. Reflect on how your personal values align with theirs and be ready to discuss how you can contribute positively to the community.