Senior Planning Policy Lead — Local Plans; Hybrid

Overview

Planning Policy Team Leader & Principal Planning Policy Officers

Central England | Hybrid Working | Initial 3–6 Month Contract (Potential to Extend) | Rates Flexible

A Local Authority in Central England is seeking experienced Planning Policy professionals to support a busy Policy team through a significant period of Local Plan work. We are recruiting for both a Planning Policy Team Leader and Principal Planning Policy Officers
, offering an excellent opportunity to contribute to strategic plan-making and policy development within an ambitious authority.

These roles are ideal for experienced Planning Policy specialists with a strong track record of Local Plan preparation, evidence-based policy making, and Examination experience.

• Provide leadership and strategic direction for the planning policy team, coordinating the development of Local Plan policies.
• Support and manage policy development through evidence gathering, consultation, and reporting processes.
• Lead on policy projects, ensuring alignment with statutory requirements and local strategic objectives.
• Contribute to examination preparation and responses, representing the authority as required.
• Collaborate with cross-departmental teams and external partners to deliver timely policy outcomes.

• Significant experience in planning policy, Local Plan preparation, and evidence-based policy making.
• Examination experience or familiarity with plan-making processes.
• Strong project management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to work in a hybrid environment and manage competing priorities on a multi-month contract.