The things I know

Planning, 15 August 2008

- Where did you study planning?

Oxford Brookes University.

- What skills did you have when you graduated?

Meeting deadlines and networking.

- What attracted you to a career in planning?

The diverse mix of people, places, law and influence.

- What did you learn in your first job?

Not to take insults personally, at least not from people who have been refused permission on my advice.

- What skills have you had to learn over your career?

Interpreting planning law, applying policy in different circumstances and people management.

- What or who have been the biggest influences on your career?

Starting in the public sector gave me a strong grounding, which I don't think can be beaten. Moving to the private sector and focusing on minerals and waste has provided a wealth of interesting projects that have broadened my knowledge and experience. My employer has also offered career development opportunities and the encouragement to pursue them.

- What is your career highlight?

Interesting projects have included the PPS10 companion guide and waste management facilities design guide, as well as the Surrey Waste Plan, the first suite of waste development plan documents to be adopted. Winning my first public inquiry and job promotions also score highly.

- What have you learnt outside work that has influenced your career?

To remember the difference between home and work. Your career should be fulfilling but not all-consuming.

- What further skills do you aim to attain or develop?

Managing a growing team, enabling colleagues to make the most of themselves and developing business finance acumen.

- How important is it to keep abreast of developments in allied professions?

Extremely - especially as minerals and waste management underpins the delivery of all other development.