Licencing Officer

Responsibilities

• Manage and determine licence applications in line with legislation and policy.
• Lead on complex licensing cases, including investigations and enforcement actions.
• Provide authoritative advice to applicants, licensees, and stakeholders.
• Prepare clear reports and recommendations for hearings and committees.
• Prepare and present evidence for hearings and, where required, support legal proceedings.
• Participate in proactive compliance checks and enforcement operations, including occasional out‑of‑hours work within the night‑time economy.

Are you an experienced Licensing Officer or a regulatory professional with strong enforcement experience looking for your next challenge? Licensing experience is strongly preferred, but we welcome applications from regulators with transferable skills. Join our Licensing team and play a vital role in safeguarding the public and ensuring compliance across a diverse range of licensing regimes. While the role primarily focuses on licensing, you may occasionally support wider regulatory functions in line with service priorities.

This is an opportunity for a skilled professional to lead on complex cases and make decisions that directly protect our communities.

• Significant experience in licensing enforcement and compliance, including decision-making on applications and investigations.
• In‑depth knowledge of licensing legislation, statutory guidance, and local policy frameworks.
• Proven ability to interpret and apply complex legal requirements in a licensing context.
• Knowledge and practical application of the Police and Criminal Evidence Act (PACE) in enforcement work.
• Degree or equivalent experience in licensing, regulatory enforcement, or a related field.
• Strong communication and negotiation skills for engagement with applicants, licensees, and partner agencies.
• Ability to manage a varied caseload, prioritise effectively, and work independently under pressure.
• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle.

• Membership of the Institute of Licensing or similar professional body (essential for Grade
  8).
• Specialist licensing qualifications (e.g., BTEC Level 3 Animal Inspector, alcohol and entertainment licensing training).
• Experience presenting cases at Licensing Sub‑Committee hearings.
• Familiarity with safeguarding principles within licensing contexts.
• Understanding of local authority governance and decision‑making processes.
• Competence in using licensing software systems and digital case management tools.
• Proficiency in Office 365 applications for case management and reporting.
• Experience using Uniform or similar licensing case management systems.
• Ability to handle complex, contentious, and sensitive casework (particularly at Grade
  8).

Please note, BANES Council operates a policy of prior consideration for roles for any individual on the Council’s at‑risk register (redeployee). This means that should a redeployee express an interest in this role, and if they meet the essential criteria, they will be considered ahead of external applicants.

About Bath and North East Somerset Council:
Working at Bath and North East Somerset provides an opportunity to contribute to your community and make a positive impact on the lives of residents. We care about the best outcomes for local people, through our public services. We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitable applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply.

The Council is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce. Applications for job‑share, part‑time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.