Principal Development Management Officer - Fixed term till 31st March 2028
Shape Major Developments. Influence Communities. Lead on Complex Planning Decisions.
The New Forest is a truly special place – home to vibrant communities, thriving businesses, internationally important landscapes and unique environmental designations. As we continue to shape the future of our district, we are looking for an experienced and inspirational planning professional to join us as a Principal Development Management Officer.
Are you an experienced planning professional looking for your next challenge?
We are seeking an exceptional Principal Development Management Officer to play a leading role in delivering some of the most significant and high-profile development proposals in the district. This is an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious planner to work on complex schemes that will shape places, support sustainable growth, and leave a lasting legacy.
As a key member of our Development Management team, you will take responsibility for a portfolio of major, strategic and sensitive planning applications, providing expert professional advice and helping to drive high-quality development outcomes. You will work closely with elected members, developers, stakeholders and communities, representing the Council at the highest level.
What You'll Be Doing
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Managing a caseload of major and strategically important planning applications.
- Leading on complex pre-application discussions and development proposals.
- Exercising delegated authority on planning matters and routine enforcement cases.
- Preparing and presenting reports to Planning Committee.
- Representing the Council at inquiries, hearings, tribunals and public meetings.
- Providing professional guidance and support to colleagues.
- Contributing to the ongoing development, performance and success of the Development Management Service.
- Handling the financial and project management aspects of major developments, including Planning Performance Agreements and significant Section 106 contributions.
What We're Looking For:
You'll be an experienced planning professional with the confidence and expertise to manage challenging and often politically sensitive cases.
Essential Requirements
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Degree or postgraduate qualification in Town Planning.
- Eligibility for membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
- Substantial Development Management experience, including experience at a senior level.
- Detailed knowledge of planning legislation, policy and Development Management practice.
- Excellent report-writing and presentation skills.
- Strong project management, ICT and analytical abilities.
- The ability to make sound professional judgements on complex planning issues.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder management skills.
Desirable:
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Management qualification.
- Experience of mentoring or supporting other planning officers.
Why Join Us?
This is an opportunity to work on projects that genuinely matter. You'll be involved in major development proposals from inception to determination, helping to shape the future of our communities while working alongside a supportive and highly professional team. The Council is embarking on a process of transformation and this is an opportunity to bring your fresh perspective to our well-established and friendly team of professionals.
Whats in it for you?
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£53,179 – £56,546 per annum (Up to £58,748 for exceptional performance once in post) (Pay award pending)
- 28 days annual leave plus bank holidays (plus an additional 5 days for 5 years local authority continuous service).
- Hybrid Working with flexibility across our sites, and home working
- Buying and Selling of annual leave
- A Cycle to Work scheme which could save you around 40 percent on cycles and accessories
- Local Government Pension Scheme and AVC provision
- Employee Assistance Programme (free 24 hour legal, financial and personal advice for employees).
- Wide range of employee discounts at high street retailers, including supermarkets, stores and restaurants
- A values‑led organisation, guided by our LEAF values (Learning, Empathy, Ambition, Fairness)
- Access to learning and development opportunities to support your growth
- A supportive, inclusive culture, where everyone is welcomed and valued
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and offer a range of active staff networks, including:
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Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Group
- LGBTQ+ Network
- Women’s Network
- Early Careers Network
- Neurodiversity Network
About us
At NFDC we recognise that every colleague - whether in operational, frontline, or office‑based roles - plays a vital part in delivering high‑quality services to our communities. We are committed to creating a supportive and inclusive environment where people feel valued for the work they do and the strengths they bring.
We aim to foster a culture where people feel confident to share ideas, contribute their expertise, and develop through meaningful conversations with their managers and supported learning opportunities. Whilst we have our corporate values, LEAF Learning Empathy Ambition Fairness, we understand that different teams work in different ways, and we want our values to be lived in ways that make sense locally while staying true to our shared purpose as an organisation.
We want colleagues to thrive, which is why we promote wellbeing, balance, and opportunities for learning and progression. Our values guide how we work together and how we support each other to be confident, capable, and adaptable.
Click here to see why employees think that New Forest District Council is a great place to work: Working for NFDC
Please note: You’ll likely be aware that as part of the ongoing Local Government Reorganisation (LGR), the current organisation will transition into a new operating structure from 1 April 2028. It is important that applicants understand how this may affect their employment should they be successful. You will find attached a useful LGR update sheet at top of this advert.
If you’re interested:
Please see the candidate booklet for more information about working at the Council and the job description.
If you are passionate about making a difference, committed to delivering excellent public services, and looking for a place where you can develop and continue to grow, we would be delighted to receive your application.
We understand that some applicants may choose to use AI tools to assist with completing their application. Please bear in mind it’s important that your application remains an accurate and honest reflection of your own skills, experience, and achievements. Please ensure that any content generated or supported by AI truly represents you and your capabilities, as this will form the basis of our assessment throughout the recruitment process
This post is subject to a basic DBS check.
Closing Date: Midnight Sunday 30th August 2026
Interview Date: Friday 16th September 2026
