Principal Licensing Officer

Location: To be confirmed with management Key Duties: • Act as a key source of expertise in the application of the Licensing Act 2003, ensuring that decisions and actions consistently promote the four licensing objectives: the prevention of crime and disorder, public safety, the prevention of public nuisance, and the protection of children from harm. • Work alongside existing officers and provide clear, practical advice to colleagues and elected Members on applications, representations, reviews and appeals. A core element of the role will be supporting consistent decision-making in line with the Section 182 Guidance, ensuring that the Council properly has regard to national guidance while applying it appropriately in a local context. • In relation to premises licensing, you will manage and advise on a wide range of applications and compliance matters, including those that are complex or high profile. This will include advising on appropriate licence conditions, supporting the preparation of committee reports, and guiding proportionate enforcement action where required. You will play a key role in helping to interpret licensing policy in practice and will contribute to its ongoing review, ensuring it remains effective, relevant and aligned with legislation and guidance. • Within taxi and private hire licensing, you will provide experienced oversight of driver, vehicle and operator licensing, working within the framework of the Town Police Clauses Act 1847 and the Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976. You will support the handling of complex cases, including safeguarding and enforcement matters, and provide advice to colleagues to ensure decisions are robust, consistent and promote public safety in line with current standards and guidance. • A key aspect of the role will be working closely with multi-agency partners, internal Council departments, and trade representatives, supporting a coordinated and informed approach to licensing and enforcement. This will include liaising with responsible authorities such as the police and safeguarding partners, as well as engaging with the licensed trade and taxi industry to promote compliance and good practice. • The postholder will also be responsible for chairing officer panels to determine whether individuals are safe and suitable persons to hold a dual driver badge, ensuring that decisions are fair, evidence-based and in line with Council policy and statutory guidance. You will support and guide colleagues in similar casework, helping to maintain consistency and confidence across the Licensing Service. Requirements: Experience of working as a Principal Licensing Officer Experience of providing day-to-day technical expertise Experience of working within a local authority How to Apply If you are interested in this opportunity, please submit your CV along with your availability and expected rate/salary. Refer a friend If you know someone who would be a good fit for the role, please send over their contact details and get in touch, as we do offer a generous referral fee.