At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape the future of local communities through strategic planning and policy development.
- Company: Join a top-rated council committed to climate action and community growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25+ days holiday, flexible working, and a unique employee benefits package.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional growth and a focus on continuous learning.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on local environments while developing your skills in a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Degree in planning or related field; strong communication and problem-solving skills required.
The predicted salary is between 40777 - 46142 £ per year.
Job reference: R1824
Date posted: 05/06/2026
Application closing date: 05/07/2026
Location: West Suffolk
Salary: Starting salary £40,777 - £46,142 per annum plus excellent employee benefits package
Contract type: Permanent
Contractual hours: 37
Basis: Full time
Department: Planning
About the team we are recruiting to:
Planning is about making the best use of land and making places where people want to live, work and play. Through preparation and implementation of land use planning policies and guidance, our work unlocks growth, contributing significantly towards our corporate priorities, and strives to protect and improve the built and natural environment. We are a council with an excellent track record in delivering Local Plans with a recently adopted Local Plan. We are a friendly and highly experienced team providing a positive and supportive working environment. We are currently at an exciting time in commencing preparation of a new Local Plan working closely with neighbouring authorities in Suffolk. The team includes Ecology, Conservation, Landscape, Urban Design and Planning Policy Officers. We have recently recruited to planning policy and specialist roles within the team, so we are in a great place moving forward. The professional expertise in the wider service and Council makes it a great place to work and opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge.
About the role:
We are seeking a highly self‑motivated and enthusiastic Senior Planning Policy Officer to join our successful strategic planning service. This is a key role in the team with a wide range of responsibilities and the opportunity to make a real difference to local communities and the future of the area. You will be responsible for assisting the preparation of the new Local Plan, Neighbourhood Plans, supplementary plans and masterplans including leading on related projects and evidence. Part of the role also involves liaising with outside bodies/stakeholders/interested individuals/expert bodies and statutory consultees in the preparation of the policy framework and attending and presenting papers to Working Groups, Cabinet, and Portfolio Holders, as required.
What you will need:
- Up to date knowledge of planning legislation.
- A degree in planning or related subject and be eligible for RTPI membership.
- Excellent communication skills for effective teamwork, client and stakeholder engagement, both written and spoken.
- Good problem‑solving skills.
- Attention to detail.
- Proficient in using IT and Microsoft.
- Ability to manage time, workload and tight deadlines while remaining focused, calm and professional.
- Willingness to learn and share knowledge.
Why work for us:
- Holiday entitlement of 25 days, increasing to 29 days after 5 years (pro rata if part time) plus bank holidays (with an option to buy up to 10 extra days each year subject to approval).
- Generous pension scheme – contribute between 5.5% and 6.8% (depending on your salary) and the council will contribute 16.4%.
- Life assurance – a payment of three times your annual salary.
- Flexible working options to enable work/life balance.
- Agile working – ability to work in the office and from home.
- Access to a unique employee benefits package which includes discounts and cashback on supermarkets, high street shops, holidays, mobile phones, electrical goods, savings and loan schemes and many other products and services.
- Salary sacrifice benefits including Cycle to Work scheme, Tusker Leased Car Scheme and SmartTech (buy the latest tech products interest free and repay through your monthly salary).
- Rail and bus staff discounts.
- A range of Health and Wellbeing initiatives including an employee assistance programme.
- Discounted membership at Abbeycroft Leisure centres.
- A culture of learning inspiring staff to focus on continuous learning.
- Modern office accommodation.
Closing date: Sunday 5 July 2026
Interview date: Thursday 16 July 2026
West Suffolk Council has been rated in the top 10 district councils for climate action (Climate Scorecards 2023) and as a member of UK100 has demonstrated its commitment to a rapid transition to Net Zero with Clean Air in our communities. The council has declared a climate and biodiversity emergency and is committed to working towards net zero emissions by 2039.
Senior Planning Policy Officer employer: West Suffolk
West Suffolk Council is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for the Senior Planning Policy Officer role. With a strong commitment to employee development, generous benefits including flexible working options, and a focus on climate action, this council provides a meaningful opportunity to contribute to local communities while enjoying a healthy work-life balance.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planning Policy Officer
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current employees at West Suffolk Council on LinkedIn or through local planning events. A friendly chat can give us insights into the team culture and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of planning legislation and recent developments in local planning. We want to show that we’re not just passionate but also well-informed about the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice our communication skills! Since this role involves liaising with various stakeholders, let’s rehearse how we’d present our ideas clearly and confidently. Mock interviews with friends can be super helpful.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can tailor our submission to highlight how we fit perfectly with the team’s goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planning Policy Officer
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the Senior Planning Policy Officer role. We want to see how you can contribute to our exciting new Local Plan and support local communities.
Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since this role involves liaising with various stakeholders, it's crucial to demonstrate your excellent communication skills. Use clear and concise language in your written application to reflect your ability to engage effectively with others.
Highlight Relevant Experience:Don’t forget to mention any relevant experience you have in planning legislation or policy preparation. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so make sure to showcase your background in this area.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered promptly!
How to prepare for a job interview at West Suffolk
✨Know Your Planning Legislation
Brush up on the latest planning legislation and policies relevant to the role. Being able to discuss recent changes or trends in planning will show your expertise and enthusiasm for the field.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Prepare examples of how you've effectively engaged with stakeholders or presented complex information in a clear manner. This is crucial for a Senior Planning Policy Officer, so practice articulating your thoughts clearly.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Think of specific challenges you've faced in previous roles and how you overcame them. Be ready to discuss these scenarios during the interview to highlight your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the Local Area
Research West Suffolk and its current planning initiatives. Understanding local issues and how they relate to the new Local Plan will help you stand out as a candidate who is genuinely interested in making a difference in the community.
