Philip, Emergency Planning Manager
Herefordshire Council

As an emergency planning specialist working for Herefordshire Council, I manage the emergency planning unit and plan, direct and control the council’s emergency planning services. I am responsible for the council’s corporate emergency response and am the principal adviser to the Chief Executive on all matters relating to emergency planning.

Emergency planning is a growth industry, with major changes taking place as a result of recent international and domestic incidents. Although I do encounter some bureaucracy in the job, I enjoy working with motivated people and I particularly like the autonomy of the role. There is also excellent support provided for personal development.

Having spent 36 years in the Royal Marines, I am now appreciating the opportunity to live in my own house in the village and county of my choice. I enjoy the flexible working arrangements, and the opportunity to work from home at least one day a week is marvellous – the council provide me with a laptop and mobile phone. I work 37 hours a week and any additional time worked is compensated by time off in lieu. There are long-term car lease hire schemes and generous annual leave. Local government is also extremely supportive over compassionate absences and illness.