Senior Planning Manager

I’m working with a well-funded residential developer to appoint a Senior Planning Manager to take a leading role in shaping and delivering some of the most significant residential developments across London and the South. This is a highly influential, strategic appointment within a business that specialises in unlocking complex, large-scale residential sites. From early-stage land promotion to planning consent and delivery, the company works collaboratively with local authorities, landowners, and key stakeholders to create high-quality, sustainable communities that make a real impact. Based in North West London, the role involves regular travel across London and the South, supporting a diverse and strategically important portfolio of residential schemes.

The Role

• Working as part of a multi-disciplinary development team, the Senior Planning Manager will lead planning strategy across multiple high-profile sites, ensuring planning considerations are embedded from concept through to consent.
• This is a hands‑on, senior role with real influence, providing the opportunity to shape site strategy, engage with key stakeholders, and work alongside land, design, commercial, and leadership teams to deliver high-value projects that define communities.
• Leading planning strategy for major residential sites from early-stage land promotion through to planning consent.
• Preparing, managing, and overseeing major residential planning applications (outline, hybrid, and full).
• Driving site promotion through the development plan process, including representations, technical evidence, and engagement with local plans and examinations.
• Instructing and managing multi-disciplinary external consultants, ensuring high-quality and timely submissions.
• Providing senior planning input on land acquisition, development appraisals, viability, and design evolution.
• Leading engagement and negotiations with local authorities, statutory consultees, stakeholders, and elected members.
• Managing planning appeals and complex negotiations where required.
• Supporting senior management in shaping wider planning strategy across the residential portfolio.

What We’re Looking For

• Significant experience in a senior planning role, ideally within residential development, strategic land, regeneration, or a related sector.
• Strong track record of managing complex planning projects and securing planning consents.
• RTPI or RICS (Planning & Development) qualified.
• Deep knowledge of planning legislation, policy, and the development plan process.
• Commercially minded, able to assess development potential, planning risk, and strategic opportunities.
• Confident communicator and negotiator at senior stakeholder level.
• Highly organised, proactive, and capable of managing multiple live projects.
• Comfortable working independently and collaboratively in a fast‑paced environment.
• Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across London and the South.

Why Apply?

• A senior planning position with real influence over large-scale residential developments.
• The chance to lead planning strategy on some of the most significant projects in London and the South.
• A professional, collaborative culture focused on quality, long-term value, and placemaking.
• Direct visibility with leadership, providing a platform to shape both projects and your career.
• Competitive salary and benefits, including bonus, car allowance, private healthcare, pension, and life assurance.