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- Tasks: Lead planning advisor for a major UK retail client, managing diverse projects.
- Company: Nationally respected company with a collaborative culture in Manchester.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, and opportunities for progression.
- Why this job: Make a direct impact on high-profile retail projects without the need for business development.
- Qualifications: MRTPI qualified with significant UK planning experience, ideally in retail or consultancy.
- Other info: Join a recognised planning team and support a national property portfolio.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
A nationally respected company is seeking a Planning Director or Associate Director with a strong track record in retail, commercial and industrial planning to join its growing Manchester team. This is a senior hire with a clear focus: delivering strategic planning advice to one of the UK’s most prominent and active developer clients. You’ll play a lead role in managing the planning needs of this high-profile client, supporting their national property portfolio. This is a fast-paced, commercially driven role requiring technical planning expertise, excellent client service, and a deep understanding of the retail and commercial planning landscape.
Key Responsibilities
- Act as lead planning advisor for a major UK retail client, managing a high volume of varied projects.
- Provide strategic advice on site selection, planning appraisals, sequential and impact assessments, and planning risk.
- Prepare and manage planning applications and appeals across England.
- Collaborate closely with in-house teams and external consultants to deliver planning outcomes efficiently.
- Support wider business development and contribute to the continued growth of the retail planning offer.
About You
- MRTPI qualified with significant experience in UK planning, ideally within consultancy or retail client-side roles.
- A strong track record of delivering retail or commercial planning schemes at pace and at scale.
- Proven expertise in retail policy, town centre planning, and commercial development.
- Commercially minded, with excellent communication and client relationship skills.
- Comfortable managing multiple projects across a national portfolio.
What’s on Offer
- The chance to work with a major UK client on a retained basis, therefore no need to business develop.
- A key role within a nationally recognised planning team with retail sector depth.
- A collaborative and flexible working culture, based out of central Manchester.
- Competitive salary and benefits package, with room for progression.
If you’re a retail-focused planner looking for a role where your expertise will be valued and your work will have a direct commercial impact, this could be your next step.
Planning Director - Manchester in Slough employer: Cobalt Recruitment.
Contact Detail:
Cobalt Recruitment. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Director - Manchester in Slough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend events, and join relevant groups. The more people you know in the planning sector, the better your chances of landing that Planning Director role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your successful projects in retail and commercial planning. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let your work speak for itself.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings; reach out directly to companies you admire. Express your interest in their work and how you can contribute to their success in the planning landscape.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application and get noticed. Plus, we value your privacy—your CV won’t be shared without your consent, so you can apply with confidence.
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Director - Manchester in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in retail, commercial, and industrial planning. We want to see how your background aligns with the key responsibilities of the Planning Director role, so don’t hold back on showcasing your relevant projects!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re the perfect fit for this role. We love seeing enthusiasm and a clear understanding of the retail planning landscape, so let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Achievements: When detailing your experience, focus on specific achievements that demonstrate your expertise in managing multiple projects and delivering results. We’re keen to see how you’ve made an impact in previous roles, especially in fast-paced environments.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cobalt Recruitment.
✨Know Your Planning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of retail, commercial, and industrial planning. Be ready to discuss specific projects you've worked on and how they relate to the role. This is your chance to showcase your MRTPI qualifications and experience!
✨Showcase Your Client Skills
Since this role involves managing a high-profile client, think about examples where you've excelled in client relationships. Prepare to talk about how you've provided strategic advice and navigated complex planning scenarios to meet client needs.
✨Be Project Ready
You’ll be juggling multiple projects, so come prepared with examples of how you've successfully managed various planning applications and appeals. Highlight your ability to work efficiently with in-house teams and external consultants to deliver results.
✨Understand the Bigger Picture
This role is commercially driven, so it’s important to demonstrate your understanding of the retail and commercial planning landscape. Be ready to discuss market trends and how they impact planning decisions, showing that you’re not just a planner but a strategic thinker.
