Principal Planning Policy Officer Salary: £50,698 – £53,800 (including £6,000 market supplement) Location: Fleet, Hampshire Working arrangements: Hybrid (80% remote) Full-time (part-time considered) | Permanent Hays is excited to be working with Hart District Council to recruit a Principal Policy Planner at a pivotal moment in the authority’s planning journey. Hart is about to commence the development of its new Local Plan under the revised plan-making system, making this a particularly exciting time for a skilled planning professional to join the team and help shape the future of the district. Located in North East Hampshire, Hart is a prosperous and growing district with a mix of rural and urban planning challenges. Consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the UK, Hart offers beautiful countryside, excellent schools, and a strong sense of community. This role is protected from changes under Devolution and Local Government Reorganisation, ensuring stability and continuity. You’ll be joining a welcoming and collaborative team, with the opportunity to lead on key policy initiatives and contribute to strategic planning. Why consider Hart District Council? • Strong Local Government Pension Scheme • Flexible working hours with up to two flexi days per month • Hybrid working policy, typically 80% home working • Generous annual leave allowance • Support for CPD and professional subscriptions • Free staff parking • Confidential employee advice and support programme • Promotion of a healthy work/life balance • A genuinely supportive and collaborative team environment What you will bring Hart is seeking a motivated and experienced planning policy professional with significant post-qualification experience. The ideal candidate will have: • A degree in Planning or equivalent, and RTPI membership • Strong understanding of planning legislation, policy, and best practice • Proven experience in local plan preparation and policy development • Excellent communication, research, and project management skills • A proactive and customer-focused approach • Experience engaging with stakeholders and presenting at public meetings • Political awareness and the ability to work collaboratively across teams This role offers the chance to lead on high-profile planning policy projects, contribute to the development of Hart’s new Local Plan, and play a central role in shaping the district’s future. How to Apply For more information, please contact Daniel Baker at Hays on 07545 546 986, or apply via this advert. Interviews will be held on site at Hart District Council Offices. The Council will arrange interviews with suitable candidates as they apply, so please get in touch ASAP if you have any questions. For more detailed information, or to view other vacancies with this organisation, please visit our dedicated recruitment website https://webmicrosites.hays.co.uk/web/hart-districtcouncil