Your next step in shaping and leading a transformative new Local Plan Whether you are an experienced Principal Planning Officer seeking a fresh and meaningful challenge, or you’re ready to step up into a role with real influence in a fantastic area like Stroud, this is an exceptional opportunity to help shape the future of one of the most distinctive districts in the country. From day one, you will play a central role in driving forward a brand‑new Local Plan within a progressive, forward‑thinking and genuinely supportive authority. We are seeking a proactive, motivated individual to lead and support colleagues within our Planning Strategy team, contributing directly to the vision, direction and delivery of the new Local Plan. You’ll be part of a collaborative, well‑regarded service where your ideas will be welcomed, your expertise valued, and your professional growth supported. This is a chance to work in an inspiring environment that will enable you to develop your career, strengthen your leadership skills, and build specialist expertise that will stay with you throughout your planning career. This is an excellent opportunity for someone with strong planning expertise who is ready to step confidently into a key role. The role Reporting to the Planning Strategy Manager, you will: Lead on planning strategy plans and projects for the district including conducting surveys, public consultation exercises, collection, collation, analysis and presentation of data be responsible for ensuring an up-to-date and robust evidence base to underpin planning policies and strategies Prepare evidence and present public meetings, Council meetings, planning examinations, planning inquiries, planning appeals and exhibitions as required and to participate in and give evidence at such events when required by the Planning Strategy Manager Liaise with other SDC departments and outside bodies to advise on planning policy matters Attend and advise at meetings of outside bodies, such as Parish/Town Councils, when required by the Planning Strategy Manager Provide policy consultation views and recommendations on planning applications and pre-applications in a timely, professional and consistent manner Provide guidance and assistance to the Senior Planning Strategy Officers and other more junior staff Represent the Council’s views in dealing with enquiries regarding the application of planning policy, legislation and other related matters Attend and report to meetings of the Council, Strategy and Resource and Strategic Planning Advisory Board as required To undertake 1-2-1’s and line management role with senior level members of the team as required