Job Description
About the Company - A fast-growing development management team is seeking a Principal Planner to join our Planning Team. This role offers the opportunity to lead a variety of development projects, ranging from £250k to £25m, guiding them through every stage of their lifecycle. As a Principal Planner, you will manage high-profile projects from inception to completion, working closely with both in-house teams and external professionals such as architects and sub-consultants. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of our projects while advancing your career in a dynamic and expanding organization.
About the Role - Experience & Qualifications:
* A degree in Geography, Urban Planning, or a related field, with a 2:1 or above.
* A minimum of 3-4 years of experience in planning, preferably within a private planning consultancy or a developer environment.
* Chartered Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) or eligibility for chartered status, preferable.
* A full UK driving license, with a willingness to travel to site visits across the UK.
* Strong project management skills, with a track record of successfully delivering complex projects on time.
Responsibilities - Key Responsibilities:
* Lead and manage the planning process for multiple large-scale projects, ensuring high-quality deliverables and adherence to project timelines.
* Prepare, review, and sign off on comprehensive planning reports.
* Provide strategic planning advice to clients, helping them navigate complex regulatory issues.
* Represent the company at planning committees, public consultations, stakeholder events, and meetings with government bodies and other key stakeholders.
* Manage and coordinate multidisciplinary teams, including external consultants, to ensure cohesive project delivery.
* Oversee the submission of planning applications, including pre-application discussions, application documents, and post-decision conditions.
* Take a leading role in the preparation of planning policy documents and feasibility studies for new and existing projects.
* Utilise GIS systems and other planning tools to assess site suitability and inform strategic decision-making.
* Monitor and report on the status of planning applications, appeals, and other relevant planning activities, ensuring all actions are completed in a timely manner.
* Advise on planning conditions, variations, and enforcement matters through the full project lifecycle (RIBA Stages 1-6).
* Drive continuous improvement within the planning team, ensuring a culture of excellence and innovation.
This is a unique opportunity for a highly motivated Principal Planner to join a forward-thinking consultancy and contribute to its ongoing success. You will have the autonomy to lead major projects and the support to further your professional development in a niche and rewarding field.