Principal Forward Planning Officer

Venn Group; Exeter; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A council seeks a Principal Forward Planning Officer to shape sustainable communities and ensure delivery of their Local Development Framework. This hybrid role (1-day/month) includes leading planning policy development and managing stakeholder consultations. The ideal candidate will have RTPI membership and extensive experience in development planning.

Qualifications

• Significant post-qualification experience in planning policy or development planning.
• Strong understanding of planning legislation and national policy.
• Proven experience in preparing Development Plans and working with evidence bases.

Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation and review of the Local Development Framework.
• Consult with stakeholders and manage sustainable development policies.
• Supervise and mentor junior planning officers.

Skills

Project Management

Negotiation

Written Communication

Presentation Skills

Education

Chartered (or Licentiate) Membership of the RTPI

Job description

We are working with Mid Devon District Council who are looking for a Principal Forward Planning Officer to help shape sustainable communities, drive policy excellence, and ensure our Local Development Framework (LDF) delivers on our corporate vision.

Location:Mid Devon District Council

Set-up: Hybrid – 1-day per month minimum

Rate:£52/hour via umbrella inside IR35

Duration: Initially6-months

Hours:Full-time position

Responsibilities include:

• Lead the preparation, supervision, and review of the Local Development Framework and associated documents, ensuring legal compliance and strategic alignment
• Manage and consult with stakeholders, communities, and external partners to create sound and sustainable development policies
• Develop policies on housing, economic growth, town centres, and green infrastructure that reflect corporate objectives and community needs
• Prepare evidence, reports, and public consultation materials, and represent the Council at Examinations in Public and key planning forums
• Supervise and mentor junior planning officers, supporting professional development and team performance

Requirements:

• Chartered (or Licentiate) Membership of the RTPI with significant post-qualification experience in planning policy or development planning
• Strong understanding of planning legislation and national policy, particularly the Planning & Compulsory Purchase Act 2004 and the Localism Act
• Proven experience in preparing Development Plans, Sustainability Appraisals, and working with evidence bases such as Strategic Housing Land Availability Assessments
• Excellent written, presentation and negotiation skills with the confidence to lead consultations and present to committees and public audiences
• Experience in project management, supervising teams, and working collaboratively across departments and with external consultants

At Venn Group, we endeavour to respond to all applications However due to the volume of applications we receive, if you have not heard from us within 48 hours please assume you have been unsuccessful on this occasion