Interim Principal Planning Officer - Strategic Projects

East London | 3-Month Rolling Contract | -5060 per Hour

A public sector organisation in East London is seeking an experienced Interim Principal Planning Officer to join its Development Management team on a 3-month rolling contract, paying -5060 per hour. This is an excellent opportunity for a senior planning professional to take a leading role in managing complex development proposals, shaping place-making outcomes, and supporting the delivery of sustainable growth across a diverse urban environment.

The Role

As Principal Planning Officer, you will lead on a varied portfolio of complex planning applications and development management matters, acting as a senior figure within the team. You will provide expert planning advice, represent the organisation at committees and inquiries, and support the development of junior planning officers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead on complex planning applications, pre-application advice, and negotiations with developers.
• Secure planning obligations and community benefits through Section 106 agreements.
• Coordinate and manage planning appeals, representing the organisation at hearings, inquiries, and written representations.
• Prepare and present reports to Planning Committees and senior stakeholders.
• Mentor and support junior planning staff, providing technical guidance and professional development.
• Deputise for the Development Management Team Leader when required.
• Engage with developers, residents, elected members, and key stakeholders across the borough.
• Drive service improvement initiatives, contribute to policy reviews, and support the enhancement of planning processes and performance.

Essential Requirements

• Postgraduate qualification in Town Planning.
• Significant experience within Development Management at a senior level.
• Strong knowledge of current planning legislation, planning policy, and development management processes.
• Experience preparing and presenting evidence at planning appeals, inquiries, hearings, and committees.
• Proven ability to manage complex caseloads and work with minimal supervision.
• Experience mentoring or supervising junior planning professionals.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Commitment to delivering high-quality, customer-focused public services.

Why Apply?

• -5060 per hour competitive contract rate.
• Opportunity to work on high-profile development projects within a busy London local authority environment.
• Strategic and influential role with significant stakeholder engagement.
• 3-month rolling contract with potential for extension.
• Opportunity to mentor and develop planning professionals while contributing to key regeneration and development projects.

Apply now if you''re an experienced planning professional looking to make an immediate impact within a forward-thinking public sector organisation in East London. For more information call Ben Styles on (phone number removed)

RG Setsquare is acting as an Employment Business in relation to this vacancy.