Name: Laura
Job title: Planner, Hertfordshire County Council
University and degree: University of Sheffield, BA Geography

Career history

While at university I undertook two weeks work experience at East Hertfordshire District Council. This provided a practical understanding of the range of roles and responsibilities within a local council and developed my aspirations to work for the public sector in planning, which is where I work now, for Hertfordshire County Council.

Getting started

I am particularly interested in addressing the strategic issues that shape our society and environment, so a career in planning policy seemed ideal.  I saw my current job advertised in Planning Magazine and on the Herts Direct website and decided to apply, as the post seemed ideal to start my planning career in local government.

To help me secure the role I needed a degree in a subject relevant to planning – in my case geography. I also needed good computer skills, good written and analytical skills and strong communication skills.

Varied work

It’s difficult to describe a ‘typical’ day as the job provides a range of different responsibilities and opportunities. My key role is working within a small team to ensure that the interests of Hertfordshire’s residents are addressed at a regional and district level. This involves responding to new planning policies and initiatives and liaising with the district councils. In practical terms it involves analysing documents, writing reports, attending meetings, going to seminars/conferences and communicating with the public.

New challenges and experience

The most challenging aspect of the job is probably the amount of planning policy there is to learn; I am currently building my technical knowledge. However, I like the variety of the job – each day is different. I am constantly learning new things and facing new challenges. The job often involves working outside the office, attending meetings, public events and courses.  This is really interesting and provides great practical experience.

Working as a planner has also provided the opportunity to liaise with other teams and functions within the environment department and more widely in the council, broadening my skills and experience.

The future

The council is supporting me to study part time for an MA in Town Planning at the University of Westminster.  After completing my qualification, I would love to develop my career within the County Council and hope to become a team leader.  Longer term, I would like to remain in local government, but broaden my experience by moving to a post in a district council or regional organisation to tackle new responsibilities and challenges.

Read more from other people working in local government on the LGtalent website.