At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex planning applications and engage with communities to unlock site potential.
- Company: Cerda Planning Limited, a reputable consultancy with a supportive team culture.
- Benefits: Hybrid working, generous leave, pension scheme, and professional development support.
- Other info: Opportunities for career progression and additional training available.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on diverse projects while advancing your career in planning.
- Qualifications: MRTPI accreditation and experience in private sector planning required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Cerda Planning Limited is an established planning consultancy with a strong reputation for understanding complex client requirements and consistently exceeding service expectations. With offices in Sutton Coldfield and Loughborough, the team secures planning permission for a wide range of residential, commercial, and retail developments, from major regeneration schemes to bespoke listed building projects and strategic land promotions. Led by experienced MRTPI-qualified directors, Cerda provides a comprehensive planning service, including site appraisals, design guidance, feasibility input, and representations on emerging plans. Work is delivered in a personable, approachable, efficient, and creative manner within a supportive team environment.
Role Description
The senior/principal should be MRTPI accredited with proven experience in the private sector with some experience in local authority too. Be able to assist with complex major planning applications (outline, full and reserved matters) for various national and local housebuilders. We are looking for someone who can/has:
- Competency to write planning statements, Statement of Community Involvement etc (essentially supporting reports for any type of planning application) with minimal supervision.
- Experience in attending planning committees to speak in support of proposals and take questions if needed.
- Arranging public consultation events (online or in person), dealing with the public during the events.
- Excellent knowledge of the development management and local plan process to be able to form views on the prospects of development on site for clients (site appraisals).
- Problem solve and devise planning strategies outside of the box to challenge stock views held by local planners to unlock site potential.
- Experience in appeals – all types including expert witness and Public Inquiries and the general process.
- Knowledge of the local plan process, making reps to local plans to promote sites/development through the process including attendance at Examination in Public.
- willingness to support/train junior members of staff.
- Ideally have access to a car and full driving licence.
In return, we offer hybrid working (currently three days per week in the office), a parking space, a NEST pension, 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays, a Christmas shutdown between Christmas and New Year, support for CPD training, and quarterly staff outings. There is a genuine opportunity for career progression for the right person, and we are willing to support additional training where necessary to help them achieve goals.
Senior / Principal Town Planner in Sutton Coldfield employer: Cerda Planning Limited
Cerda Planning Limited is an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and collaborative work culture, ideal for professionals seeking to make a meaningful impact in the planning sector. With a commitment to employee growth, we offer hybrid working arrangements, generous annual leave, and opportunities for continuous professional development, all within a dynamic team environment in the heart of Sutton Coldfield and Loughborough. Join us to be part of a company that values creativity and innovation while providing the tools and support necessary for your career advancement.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior / Principal Town Planner in Sutton Coldfield
✨Get Your Portfolio Game On Point
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior / Principal Town Planner in Sutton Coldfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills:Architecture is all about creativity and technical skills, so make sure your portfolio is front and centre! Include a range of your best projects, showcasing different styles and techniques. Don't forget to explain your design process and the challenges you overcame for each project – it gives hiring managers a glimpse into your thought process!
Tailor Your CV to Architecture:When putting together your CV, highlight relevant experience in architectural design software, like AutoCAD or Revit. Plus, if you have any internships or coursework that involved real-world projects, be sure to mention them. We want to see not just what you've done, but how it relates directly to this role at Cerda Planning Limited!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express your passion for architecture and what drew you to Cerda Planning Limited. Talk about specific projects or values of theirs you admire, and how you see yourself contributing to their team. We want to feel your enthusiasm – let it shine through your words!
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How to prepare for a job interview at Cerda Planning Limited
✨Master the Technical Questions
In an architecture interview, be ready to tackle some technical questions about building codes, design principles, and software like AutoCAD or Revit. Brush up on your knowledge of materials and components, as you might even face scenarios to solve during the interview that showcase your problem-solving skills in real-time.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
Your portfolio is your golden ticket! Make sure it not only showcases your best work but also highlights your design thinking process, from sketches to final outputs. During the interview, be prepared to discuss the projects in detail—what challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and what you learnt.
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In today's architecture landscape, sustainability is key. Be sure to highlight any projects that involved eco-friendly designs or your understanding of sustainable practices. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the trends but are genuinely passionate about creating a better future through your designs.
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Architecture is a collaborative field, so showing that you're a team player is essential. When conversing with the interviewers, actively listen and respond to their ideas. This isn’t just about you showing off your skills, but also about connecting and demonstrating how well you’d fit into their team at Cerda Planning Limited.
