Senior​/Principal Planning Policy Officer

Elmbridge Borough Council is looking for an experienced Planning Policy Officer with excellent research, communication and analytical skills, to deputise for the Local Plan Manager and take a senior role within the Local Plan Team. This is an exciting time to join Elmbridge as we move forwards with a new Local Plan under the new plan‑making system.

You will be instrumental in supporting our residents and helping them to understand how good planning shapes the area.

Salary: £45,868 - £59,657 (dependent on skills and experience)

Closing date: 9am Friday 13 February 2026

Interview date: 24 & 26 February 2026

• You are a dynamic, motivated and organised planning professional with experience of preparing development plan policies and implementing them.
• You must be able to show that you have a sound knowledge and clear understanding of current law, national policy and guidance related to development planning.
• You will have excellent interpersonal skills including the ability to communicate with colleagues, Councillors and the community. Being politically astute will also serve you well.

• Flexibility: We know you have to juggle work and life commitments and we are happy and open to discussing the right mix for you, whether it’s compressed hours or working from home, just give us a call.
• Wellbeing: When you thrive Elmbridge thrives, which is why we have developed a strong and varied wellbeing programme for our employees.
• Learning and development
  :
  We all know learning is an ongoing journey and we will support you on that journey by creating a bespoke learning and development plan for you.
• The package
  :
  Not forgetting our excellent pension and discounts with various local businesses and free employee parking.

• £45,868 - £59,657 per year

If you would like to talk to us about the role, please give Sarah Pharoah our Planning & Strategy Manager a call on or email  or Ripple Gupta our Local Plan Manager a call on or email

What are you waiting for?