Location
Bangor, Natural Resources Wales office with a suitable hybrid working pattern agreed on appointment.

Hours
Full Time

Salary
£41,132 per annum

About the Role
Natural Resources Wales (NRW) is seeking a Senior Development Planning Advisor to lead on complex, high-profile casework within the Development Planning Advice Service (DPAS). This role offers a unique opportunity to influence major development proposals across Wales—including infrastructure, housing, transport, and agriculture—ensuring environmental priorities are central to decision-making. You will provide expert advice to Planning Authorities, Welsh Government, and applicants on topics such as conservation sites, European Protected Species, flood risk, water quality, air quality, contaminated land, and landscape. Collaborating with technical specialists across NRW, you will deliver robust, evidence-based guidance that supports sustainable outcomes aligned with national priorities for climate, biodiversity, and natural resource management.

Key responsibilities include overseeing and assuring advice on Local Development Plans and sub-regional strategies, producing advice for nationally significant infrastructure projects and complex developments, attending appeals and inquiries, and contributing to NRW policy, process, and guidance development. You will also mentor colleagues, manage continuous improvement projects, and maintain auditable records to ensure compliance with legal and procedural requirements.

This role supports flexible working and requires commitment to NRW’s Equal Opportunities and Diversity Policy. You will contribute directly to improving the economic, social, environmental, and cultural well-being of Wales through your expert planning advice and leadership within the team.

Experience
- Substantial experience and excellent knowledge of environmental assessment and development planning processes.
- Significant experience in the development sector.
- Experience in community liaison and public engagement related to major projects.
- Proven ability to communicate and negotiate effectively with senior stakeholders.
- Experience coaching and mentoring colleagues.
- Ability to manage projects and lead virtual task groups.

About you
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, able to represent technical and strategic aspects of development planning to non-specialists.
- Strong analytical skills with the ability to solve complex problems and make sound judgements.
- Collaborative mindset with strong self-management and organisational skills.
- Commitment to personal development and continuous learning.
- Ability to influence at a strategic level and develop effective customer relationships internally and externally.

Qualifications
- Welsh Language: Essential level B2 (Upper intermediate), desirable level C2 (Higher proficiency).
- Relevant professional background in planning, environmental management, or ecological consultancy.
- Commitment to health and safety responsibilities appropriate to the role.
- Willingness to support and uphold NRW’s Equal Opportunities and Diversity Policy.