Philippa Smith
Bromsgrove,Worcestershire
Summary
37 years of experience in representing local authorities with a strong focus on customer service and teamwork. Proven ability to communicate effectively, both in writing and verbally, while managing individual projects with precision. Known for reliability, enthusiasm, and fostering an inclusive work environment. Skilled in problem-solving with a strong awareness of colleagues and stakeholders.
Overview
36
36
years of professional experience
Work history
Sandwell Local Plan - Project Manager
Sandwell Council
Oldbury, West Midlands
01.2023 - 12.2025
Delivered Sandwell Local Plan within agreed timetable and budget.
Provided regular updates to Management Team on project progress.
Organised public consultation events to engage stakeholders.
Project Manager - Black Country Plan
Dudley Council
Dudley, West Midlands
01.2022 - 12.2022
Delivered Black Country Plan within agreed timetable and budget.
Reported quarterly to senior management team and Council meetings.
Assisted in organising consultation events to engage stakeholders.
Senior Planning Policy Officer
Wychavon District Council
Pershore, Worcestershire
05.2021 - 11.2021
Collected evidence to support policy development for South Worcestershire Local Plan.
Authored policies for inclusion into the local plan.
Reported findings to management and participated in councillor meetings.
Deputy Director - Economic Development & Planning
Worcester City Council
Worcester, Worcestershire
01.2017 - 04.2021
Managed the Economic Development and Planning Teams for City Council.
Managed individual team operations, including staffing issues and work areas
Oversaw Directorate budget to ensure financial accountability.
Contributed as a member of Corporate Management Team to strategic planning initiatives.
Participated in Silver Team for emergency planning and response coordination.
Various roles - Regeneration & Planning Dept
Sandwell Council
Oldbury, West Midlands
11.1989 - 01.2017
Various roles ranging from Planning Officer dealing with the local plan to Service Manager for Regeneration and Planning.
Education
Master of Arts - Town Planning
University of Central England
Birmingham 09/1990 - 05/1993
Bachelor of Science - Geology & Environmental Science
Polytechnic of Wales
Pontypridd, Rhondda Cynon Taf 09/1985 - 06/1988
Skills
Effective communication skills
Collaborative teamwork
Independent project management
Calmness under pressure
Enthusiasm and reliability
Inclusivity advocacy
Stakeholder awareness
Problem solving
Affiliations
- Keeping fit through strength training, wild swimming and Pilates
- Watching sport, including cricket, football and tennis
- Travelling the world
Timeline
Sandwell Local Plan - Project Manager
Sandwell Council
01.2023 - 12.2025
Project Manager - Black Country Plan
Dudley Council
01.2022 - 12.2022
Senior Planning Policy Officer
Wychavon District Council
05.2021 - 11.2021
Deputy Director - Economic Development & Planning
Worcester City Council
01.2017 - 04.2021
Various roles - Regeneration & Planning Dept
Sandwell Council
11.1989 - 01.2017
Master of Arts - Town Planning
University of Central England
09/1990 - 05/1993
Bachelor of Science - Geology & Environmental Science
Polytechnic of Wales
09/1985 - 06/1988