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- Tasks: Lead exciting planning projects and deliver top-notch advice to clients.
- Company: Join a historic, independent partnership with nearly 200 years of expertise.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career progression, and support for professional qualifications.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a dynamic team while growing your skills.
- Qualifications: Experience in planning applications and strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Inclusive work environment that values diversity and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
We are looking for a Senior/Associate Planner to join our experienced and friendly Land, Planning, Development & New Homes Team. We have been in business in Cambridgeshire for nearly 200 years. We are a privately owned, independent partnership and make buying, selling and taking professional advice easy, enjoyable and rewarding.
What will you be doing? You will help grow the Planning & Development team by delivering high-quality planning advice and outcomes for clients, generating repeat work, and identifying new opportunities. You will manage your own caseload, lead projects from instruction to determination, and contribute to business development and strategic land promotion.
Your role at a glance:
- Lead and manage a range of planning projects including pre-applications, applications, appeals and post-permission matters (conditions/variations).
- Prepare and coordinate planning submissions and supporting documents (e.g. Planning Statements, DAS, technical inputs), managing external consultants.
- Promote sites and strategic land through the Local Plan process (Call for Sites, representations, examinations as required).
- Build and maintain strong client relationships; identify and convert new instructions through networking, referrals and proactive business development.
- Support fee proposals, scopes, programmes and budget management to deliver projects efficiently and profitably.
- Contribute to marketing and profile-raising activity (content, events, campaigns), and support junior team members (where appropriate to level).
What will it take to be successful?
- MRTPI (or working towards chartership).
- Strong experience in managing planning applications and advising clients, including coordinating multi-disciplinary teams and engaging with key stakeholders.
- Demonstrable experience of land promotion/Local Plan work (or a clear aptitude and interest in developing this specialism).
- Commercial awareness with the ability to prepare fee proposals and manage time, budgets and risk.
- Excellent written and verbal communication, with confidence presenting to clients and negotiating with LPAs.
- Highly organised with the ability to prioritise competing deadlines, maintaining confidentiality and professional standards.
- Strong IT skills and an interest in using evolving digital tools and technology to improve service.
- Full UK driving licence and use of own vehicle which is insured for business use.
Cheffins is a privately owned, independent partnership and offers our clients an outstanding combination of expertise, service and commitment. Our people are at the heart of our success and are the vital force that animates our business. We strive to create and maintain a welcoming, inclusive, healthy and safe work environment that embraces the range of human differences.
How will we reward you? Details to be confirmed during the interview process.
What happens next? This role could be the best move you make; take your time to apply and tell us about who you are, what motivates you, your life experiences and what you would like Cheffins to offer you. Be part of our forward-thinking, innovative team, who are proud of our heritage. Cheffins are committed to maintaining a welcoming, inclusive and safe environment that embraces the uniqueness and value that each person can bring to the business and encourages everyone to be themselves. We look forward to receiving your application.
Please note that applications submitted without a covering letter and completed application form will not be considered.
Location: Cambridge
Contact name: Sam Harding
Contact email: sam.harding@cheffins.co.uk
How to apply: If you would like to apply for this position, please complete an application form and upload along with your CV and a covering letter.
Senior/Associate Planner in Cambridge employer: Cheffins
Contact Detail:
Cheffins Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior/Associate Planner in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Networking is key! Get out there and connect with professionals in the planning and development field. Attend local events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out on LinkedIn. We all know that sometimes it’s not just what you know, but who you know!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio of your past projects and successes. When you’re chatting with potential employers or clients, share specific examples of how you’ve delivered high-quality planning advice and outcomes. This will help us stand out from the crowd.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After meeting someone or submitting an application, drop them a quick message to express your interest. It shows initiative and keeps you fresh in their minds. We want to be remembered for the right reasons!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at Cheffins. Let’s make this happen together!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior/Associate Planner in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your relevant experience and why you're excited about joining our Land, Planning, Development & New Homes Team. We want to see your personality come through, so don’t hold back!
Tailor Your CV: When applying, tailor your CV to match the job description. Focus on your planning experience, project management skills, and any relevant qualifications like MRTPI. We love seeing how your background aligns with what we’re looking for!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since excellent written communication is key for this role, make sure your application is clear and well-structured. Use concise language and check for any typos or errors. We appreciate attention to detail!
Be Authentic: We want to know who you are beyond your qualifications. Share your motivations, experiences, and what you hope to gain from working with us. This is your opportunity to connect with us on a personal level, so be genuine!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cheffins
✨Know Your Planning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of planning applications and land promotion. Familiarise yourself with recent case studies or projects that relate to the role, as this will show your genuine interest and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Communication Skills
Since you'll be advising clients and negotiating with local planning authorities, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've successfully communicated complex planning issues in the past, as this will demonstrate your capability in this area.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Be ready to discuss how you manage competing deadlines and prioritise tasks. Bring examples of how you've handled multiple projects simultaneously, as this will highlight your ability to stay organised and efficient under pressure.
✨Engage with Their Values
Cheffins values inclusivity and diversity, so think about how your personal experiences align with these principles. Be prepared to share how you can contribute to a welcoming work environment and support the team’s growth and development.