Principal Planner Development Management

Salary: 51801 - 59724 per annum
Grade: G
Hours: 37 hours per week

We are seeking a knowledgeable motivated and forward-thinking individual to join us as a Principal Planning Officer in Development Management on a Permanent Contract. This is a fantastic opportunity to lead on some of the boroughs most complex and high-profile planning proposals contributing directly to Thurrocks strategic growth and regeneration ambitions.

About Us:

Thurrock Council is progressing through a period of positive transformation within planning services. Following a comprehensive review by the Planning Advisory Service we have made significant improvements that go above and beyond national recommendations. With strong political and corporate support we are now seeking a high-calibre professional to help drive forward our place-shaping ambitions.

About the Role:

As a Principal Planning Officer you will play a vital leadership role within the Development Management team. You will take personal responsibility for a wide range of complex high-risk and high-profile planning casework including major applications appeals and enforcement matters. You will also take the lead on negotiation of Planning Performance Agreements and project manage strategic developments to ensure high-quality and timely outcomes.

This is a pivotal role where you will also support the development of junior staff influence policy direction and represent the council at public inquiries and hearings.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage complex and high-risk planning applications pre-application discussions and planning performance agreements.
• Take ownership of project delivery and propose innovative and customer-focused improvements to planning services.
• Prepare clear accurate and robust reports and correspondence ensuring alignment with planning policy and material considerations.
• Support and coach colleagues building technical skills and confidence within the team.
• Present to committees and public meetings on controversial or sensitive cases providing expert advice and representing the council professionally.
• Monitor and support performance against KPIs and service standards using electronic systems.
• Lead on appeals including presenting evidence at public inquiries and hearings and instructing legal counsel where required.
• Take a lead on compliance and enforcement matters resolving issues through effective negotiation.
• Stay abreast of changes to planning legislation and lead on the implementation of procedural updates.
• Collaborate across departments and with external stakeholders to deliver integrated place-based outcomes.

Skills and Experience Required:

• Extensive experience in development management with a proven track record of handling major and complex planning applications.
• In-depth knowledge of planning law policy and procedures.
• Strong leadership skills and the ability to mentor develop and motivate colleagues.
• Excellent communication negotiation and presentation skills.
• Experience presenting at planning committee and planning appeals.
• Ability to think strategically and apply a solution-focused approach.
• Skilled in managing performance targets and using digital systems for service delivery.

Why Join Thurrock Council

This is an exciting opportunity to work on a wide range of significant development projects within a dynamic and supportive planning service. We are committed to professional development continuous improvement and empowering our staff to make a meaningful impact on the boroughs future.

What We Offer:

A supportive collaborative and ambitious team culture.

Access to high-profile and career-defining planning projects.

Opportunities for leadership development and training.

Recognition and support for your professional growth.

Our Culture:

We value inclusivity integrity and innovation. Thurrock Council is committed to providing a positive and respectful workplace where all team members are supported and encouraged to succeed. We believe in making a real difference through our workand celebrating the people who make it happen.

Advert Closing Dates:

Redeployment Only: 29th May 2025

Internal & External: 22nd June 2025

Interview Date: TBC

Contact: For further information please contact Ashley Baldwin at .

A DBS Check is not required for this post.

To view the Job Profile and Person Specification please follow the link below:
Download Job Profile (PDF Document)