Principal Planning Officer - MOR11891

Job Description

To lead and supervise a team engaged in Strategic Planning and Development in accordance with the preparation and implementation of the Local Development Plan, Developer Obligations, Economic Strategy and Projects.

Responsibilities

To be responsible for the day to day leadership and supervision of Officers engaged in the Local Development Plan, Developer Obligations, Economic Strategy and Projects including regeneration and placemaking within the context of structures, plans and procedures developed for the Strategic Planning and Development Service, Statutory Responsibilities and Regulation.

To provide a professional service for the Council, staff and the public in the preparation and delivery of Development Plans, Economic Strategy, Developer Obligations, Projects and the facilitation of development.

To obtain authority for and then make decisions under Delegated Authority.

The Individual

Significant experience of Development Plans (3 years minimum post MRTPI)

Leadership or Supervision of Development Plans, Developer Obligations or other Planning staff

Experience in Developer Obligations and/or understanding of infrastructure requirements to support the delivery of Local Development Plans

A degree in Town Planning

Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute

Evidence of continuing professional development

Effective presentation and negotiation skills

Effective written and verbal communication skills

Numeracy

Working knowledge of Microsoft Office including Word and Powerpoint

Understanding of Local Government/Planning issues

Effective organisational and time management skills

Analytical abilities

Ability to interpret and apply Planning Legislation and Policies, and use judgement

Report Writing

You will be expected to travel efficiently and effectively between various work locations within Moray to meet the operational requirements of the Service. Due to the rural nature of Moray this is normally undertaken by use of a car/van

Proven ability to plan and manage own workload

Effective negotiation skills

Working on long term plans

Teamwork, Team Leadership

Ability to relate well to Customers

Flexibility

Ability to form productive working relationships

Self-motivated and ability to motivate staff

Self-confidence

Appreciation, acceptance and commitment to the importance of confidentiality

Ability to work flexibly to meet the needs and demands of the service

Ability to work in an open plan office

Ability to work in different offices dependent on service requirements

Closing Date: 12 June 2026

Starting Salary: £59,170.15

£31.39 per hour

36.25 hours per week

Interviews to be held week commencing 22 June 2026

For further information contact: Eily Webster, Service Manager – Strategic Planning & Development at eily.webster@moray.gov.uk