Job Description

The role

We are seeking to appoint an experienced Principal Licensing Officer to support the effective delivery of the council's premises licensing and taxi/private hire licensing functions. This role is focused on providing day-to-day technical expertise, while also taking the lead on more complex cases and contributing to the development and consistent application of licensing policy and practice.

What you will be doing

The successful candidate will 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.

You will 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.

Premises Licencing

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.

Taxi and Private Hire Licencing

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.

Stakeholder Relationships

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.

Team Management

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.

Overall, this role sits within an established team, combining hands-on casework, technical leadership and policy input. It is suited to an experienced licensing professional who can provide sound advice, support colleagues, and lead on complex matters while contributing to the continued effective delivery of the Council's licensing responsibilities.