Housing Policy Officer

• Housing_Policy_Officer_JD_-_March_2026

We’re committed to ensuring that everyone in our community has access to safe, suitable and sustainable housing. Strong housing policy is essential to achieving this, shaping how we plan, deliver, and improve housing services across the District.

The Housing Policy Officer will play a vital strategic role in developing policies, strategies and evidence-based guidance that shape how the Council responds to housing challenges now and in the future.

*Please note that this role is a 2-year fixed-term contract, 24 hours per week. The role allows flexibility in how contracted hours may be arranged. *

Everything you need to know:

This is a dynamic and rewarding opportunity for someone with a strong interest in housing and public policy. Based at our Sevenoaks office, you’ll work closely with the Housing Policy and Enforcement Manager to develop and deliver housing strategies, support consultation exercises, and ensure the Council’s policies reflect both local housing needs and national policy changes.

You’ll be appointed at Band D on a part-time contract, with benefits including a generous local government pension, flexible working arrangements (including hybrid working), and access to a range of health and wellbeing support.

What you will be doing:

• Supporting the development of the Council’s Housing Strategy and related sub-strategies.
• Collecting, analysing and interpreting housing data and performance information to inform policy decisions.
• Supporting public consultations, stakeholder engagement and partnership forums.
• Preparing reports, briefings and policy documents for senior officers, committees and elected members.
• Commissioning or supporting housing needs surveys and maintaining relevant datasets.
• Working with internal teams and external partners, including other local authorities, housing associations and agencies.
• Maintaining policy records, consultation tracking and stakeholder databases.

What you will bring to the role:

• Knowledge of the key issues, legislation and policy influences affecting local government housing services.
• Experience of policy development, research or strategy work within a public sector or similar environment.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret data and information from a range of sources.
• Excellent written communication skills with the ability to produce clear reports and policy briefings.
• The ability to present complex information in a clear and logical way.
• Experience working with stakeholders, partner agencies, elected members or senior officers.
• A proactive, organised and flexible approach with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• A positive team-focused attitude and strong commitment to public service.

Why work with us?

We’re proud to be a high-performing local authority that values innovation, collaboration and people-first service. You’ll be joining a team that is committed to developing evidence-based policies that make a real difference to housing provision across the district.

You’ll be supported to develop your policy expertise, contribute to strategic decision-making, and play a key role in shaping the Council’s housing priorities.

What’s in it for you?

You’ll join a dynamic and forward-thinking team delivering services that really matter. Every day is different, and the work you do will influence how housing services are delivered to our residents.

Other benefits include:

• Enhanced annual leave of 28 days (pro rata, excluding bank holidays)
• Additional leave after 5 years of service
• Extra Christmas closure day
• Hybrid working
• Generous Local Government Pension Scheme
• Opportunities to join in with social activities
• Free parking
• Employee benefits including discounts on shopping, travel, days out and more
• Tusker car salary sacrifice scheme and discounts with your MOT
• Access to BUPA Employee Assistance Programme; a free, 24/7 confidential counselling and wellbeing support service

Do you want to know more about the role?

Please get in touch with Alison Simmons, Head of Strategic and Private Sector Housing, on 01732 227272, or with Liz Crockford, Housing Policy and Enforcement Manager, on 01732 227482, for an informal discussion about the role.

Do you want to ensure you have the best chance of being shortlisted?

Read the Job Description and Personal Specification attached to the role and ensure that your supporting statement explains how you meet the essential requirements, as your application will be judged against these criteria.

Closing date: 12th April 2026

Interview date: 20th April 2026