At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning applications and mentor junior planners in a dynamic consultancy.
- Company: Established town planning consultancy known for supportive culture and quality advice.
- Benefits: Flexible working, competitive salary, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Opportunity for career advancement to Associate Director level.
- Why this job: Join a diverse team and make a real impact on community planning projects.
- Qualifications: Experience in UK town planning and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 60000 £ per year.
We're working with a well‑established independent town planning consultancy in Cheltenham that is looking to appoint an experienced Senior Town Planner, with scope to recruit up to Associate Director level depending on experience. This role has arisen due to a combination of ongoing workload and team development and presents an excellent opportunity to join a respected practice known for high‑quality, commercially focused planning advice and a genuinely supportive culture.
The Opportunity
- You’ll be joining a busy consultancy team undertaking a wide variety of planning work, offering far more breadth than many specialist practices.
- The role would suit a planner who enjoys variety and autonomy but also wants to contribute to the development of others.
- Managing and leading planning applications, appeals, and pre‑application work.
- Advising clients on planning strategy and policy with a clear commercial focus.
- Working across a broad project mix, including strategic land and land promotion work.
- Supporting and mentoring graduate and junior planners, helping to build depth within the team.
- Maintaining strong relationships with clients and local authorities.
- Contributing at a senior level to project delivery and, at AD level, wider business growth.
About You
- The client is deliberately flexible on background and is open to candidates from private consultancy, local authority, or mixed backgrounds.
- You are likely to have solid experience within the UK town planning system.
- Confidence managing your own caseload and working independently.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills.
- An interest in supporting and guiding more junior planners.
- RTPI membership (Chartered status welcomed but not essential for senior level).
- The commercial awareness expected at Senior Planner or Associate Director level.
Working Pattern
Senior Town Planner / Associate Director employer: Beach Baker Property Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Beach Baker Property Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Town Planner / Associate Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, webinars, and local meet-ups to connect with fellow planners and potential employers. Don’t be shy; introduce yourself and share your passion for town planning!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your best projects and achievements in town planning. This will give you an edge during interviews and help you stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent projects. Tailor your answers to demonstrate how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in managing planning applications and mentoring junior staff.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities that might just be the perfect fit for you. Plus, it’s a great way to show your enthusiasm for joining our team!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Town Planner / Associate Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the Senior Town Planner role. Highlight your experience in managing planning applications and mentoring junior planners, as these are key aspects of the job.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about town planning and how your background aligns with the consultancy's values. Don’t forget to mention your commercial awareness and ability to work independently.
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since strong written communication is crucial for this role, ensure your application is clear, concise, and free of errors. Use professional language but keep it friendly – we want to see your personality shine through!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates during the process. Plus, it shows you’re keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Beach Baker Property Recruitment
✨Know Your Planning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the UK town planning system and recent changes in legislation. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how they relate to the role. This shows your expertise and confidence in managing your own caseload.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves mentoring junior planners, think of examples where you've successfully led a team or supported others in their development. Highlighting your ability to guide and inspire will resonate well with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that ask how you would handle specific planning applications or client interactions. Practise articulating your thought process and decision-making skills, as this will demonstrate your commercial awareness and strategic thinking.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Engage with your interviewers by asking insightful questions about their projects and company culture. This not only shows your interest but also helps you assess if the consultancy is the right fit for you.