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- Tasks: Support planning activities for innovative residential developments from start to finish.
- Company: Sustainability-focused residential developer with a design-led approach.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, clear career progression, and exposure to senior decision-makers.
- Why this job: Join a growing team and make a real impact on sustainable housing projects.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in residential planning; experience in local authority or consultancy preferred.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with high visibility and responsibility in a cash-rich business.
The predicted salary is between 39000 - 52000 £ per year.
I’m working exclusively with a design-led, sustainability-focused residential developer to appoint a Planner to the business. This is an opportunity within a cash-rich, scaling business where you will gain full development exposure, increased responsibility and a clear progression pathway as the platform expands. The business is delivering low-carbon, design-led housing schemes across London and the Home Counties and is entering a significant period of growth. Based from their Hampstead office, this appointment will sit within a small, high-performing team where contribution is visible and progression is merit-led.
The Role
As part of the development function, you will support planning activity across live and future residential schemes. This position offers genuine cradle-to-grave exposure — from site identification and feasibility through to application, determination and delivery.
Key responsibilities include:
- Supporting site appraisals, planning strategy and early-stage feasibility work.
- Assisting with the preparation, coordination and submission of residential planning applications.
- Liaising with local authorities, consultants and external stakeholders.
- Monitoring local plan policy, land opportunities and planning risk.
- Supporting appeals, condition discharge and ongoing planning compliance.
- Contributing to sustainability-led planning narratives and environmental positioning.
- Working closely with Land, Technical and Construction teams to ensure alignment throughout delivery.
What They’re Looking For
- 2+ years’ experience within residential planning.
- Background within local authority, consultancy or developer environment.
- Ambitious, commercially aware and keen to develop within a growing business.
- Comfortable operating within a small team environment with high visibility and responsibility.
Why This Opportunity?
- This is an excellent opportunity for an Assistant Planner or Graduate Planner looking to step into a role with full lifecycle exposure rather than a narrow application-focused remit.
- Direct access to senior decision-makers.
- Clear and accelerated career progression as the business scales.
- A sustainability-first development model embedded at the core of the company.
Contact: Dan Petrie, Principal Consultant, dan.petrie@cognisantsearch.com, 07487 795148
Planner in City of London employer: Cognisant
Contact Detail:
Cognisant Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planner in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals, attend events, and join relevant online groups. The more people you know, the better your chances of hearing about opportunities before they even hit the job boards.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or a personal website showcasing your projects and achievements in residential planning. This gives potential employers a tangible sense of what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its sustainability initiatives. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and how you can contribute to their growth in the residential development sector.
✨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, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Planner in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experience that match the Planner role. Highlight your background in residential planning and any relevant projects you've worked on. We want to see how you can contribute to our sustainability-focused approach!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about residential development and how your values align with our sustainability-first model. Keep it concise but impactful – we love a good story!
Showcase Your Team Spirit: Since we operate in a small, high-performing team, it's important to demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you've worked with others in past roles, especially in planning or development contexts.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any updates. Plus, it shows you're keen to join our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cognisant
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends in residential planning and sustainability. Familiarise yourself with the company’s projects and their approach to low-carbon housing. This will show that you're genuinely interested and ready to contribute.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past roles that highlight your experience in site appraisals, planning applications, and liaising with stakeholders. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to structure your answers clearly.
✨Ask Smart Questions
Come prepared with insightful questions about the company’s future projects, their sustainability goals, and how they measure success in planning. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the company aligns with your values.
✨Be Yourself
In a small team environment, cultural fit is key. Be authentic and let your personality shine through. Show your enthusiasm for the role and the company’s mission, as this can make a lasting impression on the interviewers.