Principal Town Planner

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a development company in Bedfordshire that undertakes challenging and varied projects across the UK on the hire of a Principal Town Planner. This is a full-time role with flexible working options.

Our client specialises in Crematoria and Cemetery Planning, Design, and Environmental Services. The projects they take on serve both public and private sector clients, with project values ranging between £250k to £20m!

Due to rapid growth, the company is now looking to appoint a Principal Planner to lead complex development projects through the planning process. As a Principal Planner, you will be responsible for managing high-profile projects from inception, working closely with the in-house design team, external architects, and sub-consultants.

Experience & Qualifications:

• Candidates should hold a degree in Geography, Urban Planning, or a related field, with a 2:1 or above.
• You should hold commensurate experience at Principal Planner level (preferably from 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.

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.

Interested?

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping the future of the company while advancing your career in a dynamic and growing organisation.

If you meet the specification then the hiring manager is ready to meet you! Please contact Matt Fraser on or