Principal Policy Officer

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 influence 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.
• & 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 robert.lowe@derbyshire.gov.uk

Provisional Interview Date: Week Commencing 19th January 2026

Policy2025

Apply now and take the first step towards a fulfilling career with us! By joining Derbyshire County Council you will have access to a range of amazing rewards and employee benefits, including our generous annual leave scheme, excellent local government pension and fantastic employee discounts. To discover more detail about the rewards and benefits available to you, click here

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This role currently offers hybrid working options which will be to subject service needs, there'll be an opportunity to discuss working arrangements for this position at interview.

Important: Derbyshire County Council holds a sponsorship licence, but this role does not offer visa sponsorship. Please apply only if you already have the right to work in the UK without sponsorship, as applications that do not meet this requirement will be rejected.

We welcome applications from individuals who share our values — being Collaborative, Innovative, Empowered and Accountable. These values describe who we are and what we stand for as a council. They help shape our culture, encourage consistent behaviour and guide how we work together to make a positive difference for both our employees and the residents we serve.