Associate Planner (RTPI)

We are looking for an experienced Senior or Associate Planner to join our Planning team in Oxford. Based in one of our hub offices, you will be part of the wider Planning and Development South team, currently comprising 15 planning and development professionals with a range of specialisms and extensive experience of working collaboratively on planning and development projects across a number of sectors throughout the south and southwest. The role will support fee generation by managing a wide range of planning matters, with a particular focus on promoting development sites through Local and Neighbourhood Plan consultations and examinations. This will include the critical assessment of emerging local planning policy frameworks and the preparation and submission of client representations. The role will also involve developing existing client relationships, securing new instructions, and contributing to the achievement of the Planning team’s financial and wider business objectives. Clients are wide ranging and include the University of Oxford, CEG, Oxford University Hospital Trusts, and David Wilson Homes.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide professional and strategic planning advice to clients.
• Prepare representations on behalf of clients to Local Plans and other Development Plan Documents and present oral evidence and discussion at Local Plan examination hearings.
• Negotiate with local authorities and other statutory undertakers on behalf of clients on planning applications and related matters.
• Support the wider team in preparing and submitting planning applications.
• Prepare and submit planning appeals, including written representations, informal hearings and public inquiries.
• Provide policy‑led advice to clients on planning potential of sites.
• Undertake detailed negotiations with local authorities and other statutory bodies on planning matters.
• Work in close partnership with other departments of Carter Jonas to provide a range of services and professional advice to enable clients to make the right decision.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will be RTPI Chartered and have significant post‑qualification experience. We are particularly interested in planners with significant planning policy experience, gained either within local government or the private sector. Experience in development viability, coordination and use of viability evidence to support representations is desirable. Knowledge of housing land supply evidence or socio‑economic evidence and interpretation would be an asset. Candidates should be able to work independently on projects and as part of a team, have experience preparing for and attending client meetings, strong communication skills, and a “can‑do” attitude. Ambition and proactive development, alongside a keen interest in learning new skills, are essential.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package including 25 days annual leave, pension contribution, life assurance, DenPlan, Health Cash Plans, the option to buy additional annual leave and cycle to work schemes. Flexible benefits are available to suit personal circumstances.

Equal Opportunity

We are an equal opportunity employer dedicated to driving diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We encourage everyone to continue developing to optimise their performance and fulfil their potential.