Principal Policy Planner

Pay Rate: Up to £62.00 per hour (Umbrella) Location: Maidenhead (Hybrid Working - 1 day per week in the office, 4 days from home) Contract: Temporary Assignment | 12 Months Hours: Part-Time | 28 Hours per Week

We are currently recruiting for an experienced Principal Policy Planner to play a key role in the preparation and delivery of the Council's new Local Plan. This is an excellent opportunity to join a forward-thinking local authority and contribute to shaping sustainable growth and development across the Borough.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Planning Policy Manager in delivering the Council's statutory planning policy responsibilities.
• Lead on key aspects of the preparation of the new Local Plan, including commissioning and managing the evidence base.
• Drive the delivery of sustainable development and place-making initiatives in line with the Council's strategic priorities.
• Manage engagement and consultation activities with residents, stakeholders, Parish Councils, elected Members, and senior leadership teams.
• Provide professional planning advice at Council meetings, committees, working groups, and public forums.
• Act as deputy to the Planning Policy Manager when required.
• Supervise and support junior members of the Planning Policy team.
• Take ownership of specialist planning policy areas and ensure projects are delivered effectively and on time.
• Manage external consultants and oversee contract performance, budgets, and project outcomes.

About You

To be considered for this role, you will have:

• A degree in Planning or a related discipline (postgraduate qualification desirable).
• Chartered Membership of the RTPI (or equivalent professional accreditation).
• Significant experience working within Planning Policy and Local Government.
• Extensive knowledge of planning legislation, policy development, and the Local Plan process.
• Strong leadership and project management skills.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation abilities.
• Experience managing complex stakeholder relationships and public consultations.
• The confidence to represent planning policy matters at committee meetings and public events.

Why Apply?

• Up to £62 per hour umbrella rate.
• Flexible hybrid working arrangement.
• Long-term 12-month contract.
• Opportunity to influence the future growth and development of a high-profile Borough.
• Collaborative and supportive team environment.

If you're an experienced Planning Policy professional looking for your next interim opportunity, we'd like to hear from you. Please submit your CV outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role.