Planning Support Assistant

Neway International Ltd; Taunton; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A planning support service provider is seeking a Planning Support Assistant to provide comprehensive support to the Head of Planning and Planning Service Managers in Taunton. The role involves managing schedules, arranging meetings, and handling sensitive communications. Ideal candidates will have a minimum of 5 GCSE passes and strong IT skills, particularly in Microsoft Office. This is a full-time role with a competitive hourly pay rate, and candidates should be able to prioritise effectively in a dynamic environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 GCSE passes or relevant experience required.
• Vocational qualifications in secretarial/executive support desirable.
• Experience in local government or public sector environments preferred.

Responsibilities

• Manage diaries and correspondence for senior managers.
• Organise meetings and prepare agendas, minutes, and reports.
• Act as first point of contact for enquiries and handle sensitive information.

Skills

Strong IT skills

Excellent organisational skills

Effective communication skills

Interpersonal skills

Ability to prioritise workload

Education

Minimum of 5 GCSE passes including English and Maths

Vocational Secretarial/Executive Support qualifications

Tools

Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint)

Job description

Neway International are seeking a Planning Support Assistant to join our client, Somerset Council.

Location: The Crescent, Taunton, Somerset, TA1 4DY

Hours: 37 per week

Start Date: 05 January 2026

Pay Rates: £14.82 per hour PAYE / £19.62 per hour Umbrella

About the Client

Somerset Council’s Community Place & Economy directorate is dedicated to delivering high-quality planning services that support local communities and ensure effective management of resources.

The Role

As Planning Support Assistant, you will provide comprehensive support and daily business management services to the Head of Planning and Planning Service Managers. This is a dynamic role requiring strong organisational skills, discretion, and the ability to prioritise effectively in a fast‑paced environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Manage diaries, schedules, meetings, and correspondence for senior managers
• Organise meetings, prepare agendas, minutes, reports, and ensure smooth coordination with stakeholders
• Act as first point of contact for enquiries, complaints, and correspondence, handling sensitive information with tact and discretion
• Undertake research and prepare executive summaries and presentations on national and regional policy issues
• Liaise with internal and external stakeholders including elected members, government departments, and partner agencies
• Maintain accurate records, manage information securely, and support project coordination
• Provide administrative support including letter writing, email communication, and professional document preparation

Candidate Requirements

• Minimum of 5 GCSE passes (including English and Maths) or relevant experience
• Vocational Secretarial/Executive Support/Personal Assistant qualifications desirable
• Strong IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, SharePoint)
• Excellent organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills
• Ability to prioritise workload, work independently, and manage complex situations under pressure
• Experience in local government or public sector environments desirable