Job Title: Principal Licensing Officer
Location: Plough Lane, Hereford
Contract Length: Initial 26 Weeks
Start Date: 3 August 2026
Hours: 37 Hours Per Week
IR35 Status: Inside IR35
Overview
An established Local Authority is seeking an experienced Principal Licensing Officer to support the delivery of Premises Licensing and Taxi & Private Hire Licensing functions. The successful candidate will provide technical expertise, manage complex licensing cases, support policy development, and ensure licensing decisions comply with current legislation and national guidance.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide specialist advice on Premises Licensing and Taxi & Private Hire Licensing matters.
- Manage complex licensing applications, reviews, representations, and appeals.
- Ensure compliance with the Licensing Act 2003, Town Police Clauses Act 1847, and Local Government (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act 1976.
- Prepare committee reports and advise elected Members on licensing decisions.
- Recommend appropriate licence conditions and enforcement actions.
- Support safeguarding investigations and complex enforcement cases.
- Chair officer panels to determine the suitability of dual driver badge applicants.
- Work closely with Police, safeguarding partners, responsible authorities, and trade representatives.
- Contribute to the development, review, and consistent application of licensing policies.
- Mentor and provide technical guidance to Licensing Officers across the service.
Essential Requirements
- Proven experience as a Licensing Officer within a Local Authority.
- Strong knowledge of the Licensing Act 2003 and associated legislation.
- Experience managing Premises Licensing and Taxi & Private Hire Licensing functions.
- Experience preparing committee reports and presenting recommendations.
- Strong understanding of licensing enforcement, safeguarding, and compliance.
- Excellent communication, stakeholder management, and decision-making skills.
- Ability to manage complex casework and deliver high-quality licensing services.
Desirable Skills
- Experience chairing licensing panels or officer review meetings.
- Experience developing or reviewing licensing policies.
- Strong knowledge of Section 182 Guidance.
- Experience working collaboratively with Police, legal teams, and regulatory partners.
- Local Government Regulatory Services experience.