Job Title: Principal Development Management Officer
Job Title:Salary: £58,000 - £65,000 per annum
Hours: 35 hours per week
Location: Barking, London
Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading organisation in the appointment of an experienced Principal Development Management Officer to join a high-performing and fast-paced Development Management Team in one of London's most significant growth areas.
This is an excellent opportunity for a motivated and commercially aware planning professional to contribute to a forward-thinking service recognised for delivering best-in-class performance. The successful candidate will demonstrate strong technical expertise, exceptional organisational skills, and a proactive, solutions-led approach, alongside a clear commitment to high-quality customer service.
The Role
Working within the Development Management function, you will play a key leadership role in delivering complex and high-profile planning projects. You will collaborate closely with senior colleagues across planning, transport, infrastructure, and design functions, as well as elected members and key stakeholders.
Key Responsibilities
Lead on a wide range of Development Management and Spatial Planning projects, including pre-application advice, planning applications, and appeals
Manage complex major and strategic applications of regional and national significance
Represent the organisation at hearings, public inquiries, and examinations
Prepare and present high-quality reports and briefings to committees, elected members, and senior stakeholders
Undertake robust planning assessments in line with the Local Plan, regional strategies, and national policy frameworks
Manage a complex personal caseload while supporting workload distribution across the team
Supervise and mentor junior staff, contributing to team development and performance
Engage with developers, stakeholders, and the wider community to support high-quality development outcomes
Provide expert advice on conservation, listed buildings, ecology, and tree preservation matters
Deliver professional guidance to the public and stakeholders, including in challenging or sensitive situations
About the Team
The Planning function has undergone significant transformation, with a focus on delivering a commercially aware, efficient, and customer-focused service. The team operates in a dynamic environment, supporting ambitious regeneration and growth objectives.
Candidate Requirements
Essential Experience & Knowledge
Degree in Town Planning (or related discipline) with eligibility for professional membership (e.g. RTPI), or working towards accreditation
Strong working knowledge of planning legislation, policy, and practice
Proven experience handling complex planning applications and major developments
Experience mentoring or supporting junior staff
Demonstrable ability to innovate and improve service delivery
Understanding of how legislative and policy changes impact planning services
Experience working in a high-pressure environment with competing priorities
Strong IT skills, including use of standard office and planning systems
Additional Information
Competitive salary and benefits package, including 30 days annual leave and pension
Hybrid working arrangements, with a minimum of two office days per week Interested?
The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones on (phone number removed) or (url removed)