Dr. Peter Geraghty, a seasoned professional with over thirty-five years of experience in planning and development, has recently been inaugurated as the president of the Planning Officers’ Society (POS). This prestigious appointment makes him the first person to have led both the POS and the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), where he served as president from 2013 to 2014.
Throughout his career, Dr. Geraghty has been actively involved in various aspects of the planning profession, holding positions such as trustee for the Town and Country Planning Association, chair of the Board of Trustees for the RTPI, and vice president of the Commonwealth Association of Planners. His diverse background in the public, private, and voluntary sectors has equipped him with a comprehensive understanding of urban planning and development.
In his inauguration speech as president of the Planning Officers’ Society, held in Lambeth, London, Dr. Geraghty underscored the importance of public sector planning under the theme ‘Public Sector Matters’. As the executive director of Hertsmere Borough Council, he emphasized the role of urban planning in shaping cities and communities, stating, “Urban planning is the art of city making. It is a profession for the optimist, for the ambitious, and for the public-spirited.”
Dr. Geraghty’s presidency will focus on collaboration with key organizations in the planning sector, including the Royal Town Planning Institute, the Town and Country Planning Association, the UK Planning Schools, and the Young POS Network. By working together, he aims to advocate for planning, elevate the status of the profession, and inspire future generations to pursue careers as chartered town planners.
One of Dr. Geraghty’s primary goals is to make the planning profession more appealing to young people. He believes in the transformative power of planning and its ability to bring about positive change in society. By showcasing the rewarding and fulfilling aspects of the profession, he hopes to attract a new generation of talented individuals who are passionate about creating sustainable and vibrant communities.
As Dr. Geraghty embarks on his presidency at the Planning Officers’ Society, he is committed to championing the planning profession, fostering collaboration, and nurturing the next generation of town planners. With his wealth of experience and dedication to public sector planning, he is poised to lead the POS with vision and purpose, driving innovation and excellence in urban development.
