Planner Policy

We are seeking a Planner Policy to join the team at level A. This is the entry point of the role, so you will need to be able to demonstrate the relevant knowledge, experience and skills to get you started, but you will be supported to develop in your role through induction, probation and a supportive Performance Appraisal and Career Conversation. All elements of level A listed within the person specification are essential. Through your induction you will be introduced to the Career Progression Framework (CPF), which will help you to identify your areas of strength and any development needs.

Medway Council is looking for a new Planner to work in the Policy team of the Planning Service. The Council is preparing to submit its new Local Plan for examination. This sets out a strategy for Medway’s growth up to the early 2040s, with opportunities for urban regeneration, and strategic development in suburban and rural areas. You will be involved in a range of planning policy projects, including research, analysis and professional advice.

The main purpose of the job is to:

Assist in the preparation, implementation and monitoring of development policy documents, particularly the Medway Local Plan but this could also include Neighbourhood Plans, supplementary policy and guidance documents.

Contribute to research and analysis to provide an evidence base for policy documents and support wider decision making.

Provide policy advice to Development Management, and information on planning policy matters to local communities and other stakeholders.

Contribute to effective engagement with local communities and other stakeholders in a way that reflects the vision and values of the Council and participate in multi-disciplinary project teams as required.

Interviews are due to take place on the 18 or 20 November 2025.

If you would like to have an informal discussion with the recruiting manager, please e-mail Catherine Smith on catherine.smith@medway.gov.uk or Prem Velayutham on prem.velayutham@medway.gov.uk

Career Progression Frameworks (CPF) have been introduced for all roles at Medway Council. These frameworks provide a mechanism for employees to take ownership of their development within their post and be rewarded accordingly. This means that the salary you will be offered will be at level A unless, based on an assessment against the CPF criteria, you demonstrate that you are meeting the criteria of level B or C. There will be further opportunity once in post to progress from level A to B, and B to C.

When writing your application, it is important to ensure you identify your suitability against the requirements of the job profile, as this information will be used for shortlisting and may contribute to the CPF assessment. Your application may be rejected if the minimum required criteria is not met. Further information relating to the requirements for this role can be found in the CPF Guidance document attached.

The person specification of a job profile is split into three levels:

Level A details the essential criteria that all applicants must be able to demonstrate through their application and interview.

Level B details the developed competencies that an individual who is practised in this role would be able to demonstrate and will be a progression of knowledge, experience and skills from level A.

Level C requires the highest level of competence and applicants would need to fully meet and demonstrate all aspects of the job profile, including qualifications, knowledge, skills and experience.

Important Information-

Applicants must be able to demonstrate all essential requirements as listed in the job profile

For further information, and for details of the benefits of working for Medway Council, please refer to the Medway information pack available as a download or to view online.

Please be advised that if you are not contacted within 3 weeks of the advert closing date then you have not been shortlisted. All recruitment correspondence, including interview letters and contracts of employment will usually be sent out via email.

Please visit http://www.mindfulemployer.net/ for information on how Medway Council put good practices in place to ensure employees and job applicants who declare mental health issues receive the right level of support.

We reserve the right to close this vacancy at any time prior to the closing date.