Senior Strategic Planning Officer

South Hams District Council; Totnes; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in the South West of England is seeking an experienced Senior Strategic Planning Officer. The role involves developing a joint local plan that balances housing delivery, sustainability, and economic needs. Ideal candidates will have a background in strategic planning, strong analytical and collaboration skills. An innovative approach to planning is key to addressing current challenges in the community.

Qualifications

• Experience in strategic planning or local plan production.
• Ability to analyze complex information and develop evidence-based policy.
• Strong collaboration and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development of the joint local plan.
• Engage with stakeholders and analyze planning policy.
• Collaborate with partner councils to deliver solutions.

Skills

Strategic planning

Analytical skills

Project management

Collaborative skills

Job description

Overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and capable Senior Strategic Planning Officer in the Strategic Planning Team of South Hams District Council and West Devon Borough Council.

We are embarking upon a new joint local plan for South Hams and West Devon under the new local plan-making system. Our new plan will need to balance a range of potentially competing demands, including delivering homes that are accessible to as many members of our communities as possible, despite being one of the most unaffordable areas of the country. We also need to enable sustainable growth that aligns with UK carbon reduction targets, whilst addressing the short term challenges of our rural economy and the changing role of our High Streets. We are keen to attract an innovative and creative senior planner to help us consider and address these, and other, issues.

As well as being located in the beautiful south west of England, we can offer a supportive a progressive work culture that invests in its staff and promotes professional development.

For an informal discussion or for further details about the role, please contact Phil Baker, Head of Strategic Planning on 01803 861210 or [e-mail]

Closing date: Sunday 14 September 2025

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the development of the joint local plan for South Hams and West Devon, balancing housing delivery, affordability, sustainability and economic needs.
• Engage with stakeholders, analyse planning policy, and help shape strategy to respond to rural economy challenges and the changing role of High Streets.
• Collaborate with partner councils, planning authorities and communities to deliver innovative planning solutions.
• Support the planning team with project management, data analysis, and policy assessment to inform decision-making.

Qualifications

• Experience in strategic planning, local plan production or related policy development.
• Ability to analyse complex information, develop evidence-based policy, and communicate clearly to stakeholders.
• Strong collaboration, project management and organisational skills.

Benefits and How to Apply

For an informal discussion or for further details about the role, please contact Phil Baker, Head of Strategic Planning on 01803 861210 or [e-mail]

Closing date: Sunday 14 September 2025