Principal Policy Officer

Derbyshire Limited; East Midlands; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A local government authority in East Midlands seeks a committed individual for a dynamic role within the Strategy & Policy Team. You will support critical Council priorities and develop strategic initiatives. Candidates should possess a degree and significant experience in policy development. Key responsibilities involve liaising with stakeholders and adapting to evolving policy issues. The position offers comprehensive benefits including annual leave, wellness support, and professional development opportunities.

Benefits

Generous Annual Leave Scheme

Flexi Time Scheme

Local Government Pension Scheme

Wellbeing Support Framework

Training and Development Opportunities

Cycle to Work Scheme

Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme

Employee Wellbeing Support

Qualifications

• Educated to degree level or equivalent.
• Substantial experience of policy development within a Local Authority.
• Detailed knowledge of national, regional and local policy issues affecting local government.

Responsibilities

• Liaise with elected members and partners to support high-profile Council priorities.
• Work closely with stakeholders to implement corporate initiatives.
• Respond to a rapidly changing agenda.

Skills

Outstanding communication skills

Policy development experience

Ability to motivate others

Tact and diplomacy

Critical thinking

Education

Degree level education or equivalent

Job description

Closing date: 11 January 2026

An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Strategy & Policy Team for a dynamic and committed individual to take forward and support key priorities for the Team and the Council as a whole, including working on Local Government Reorganisation.

In this role you will be liaising with elected members, partners and other agencies to support the delivery of high profile Council priorities, across the Teams broad ranging work programme including LGR, strategic policy and critical thinking, future planning and development, strategic partnerships and community leadership. Working closely with internal and external stakeholders to develop and implement wider corporate initiatives and programmes will also be part of your remit.

Educated to degree level or equivalent, you will have detailed knowledge of national, regional and local policy issues affecting local government, and the ability to respond to a rapidly changing agenda. You must be a dedicated, versatile and self‑motivated individual who has substantial experience of policy development within a Local Authority. Displaying a high level of tact, diplomacy, drive and enthusiasm, with outstanding communication and report writing skills, you will have the experience and ability to motivate people at all levels to make decisions in a complex and emerging policy environment.

Support & Benefits

• Generous Annual Leave Scheme (27 days increasing to 32 days after 5 years’ service): Ensuring a healthy work‑life balance.
• Flexi Time Scheme: Up to two days flexi leave every four weeks (pro rata for part‑time employees), subject to service needs.
• Local Government Pension Scheme: Providing financial security.
• Wellbeing Support Framework: Includes OH physician services, physiotherapy, CBT, and in‑house counselling.
• Employee Wellbeing Support: Fast track physiotherapy, confidential psychological support services, Employee Assistance Programme, and “Wisdom” app.
• Training and Development: Opportunities for professional qualifications and ongoing training.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Promoting a healthy lifestyle.
• Electric/Plug‑in Hybrid Vehicle Salary Sacrifice Scheme: Encouraging environmentally friendly commuting options.
• Our Derbyshire Rewards: a package of benefits and discounts.
• and much more

If you match these requirements then we would like to hear from you.

For further details on the post or the working environment please contact Rob Lowe by email on [e-mail]

Provisional Interview Date: Week Commencing 19th January 2026

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