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- Tasks: Lead a team in delivering environmental planning services and manage project coordination.
- Company: Join a dynamic company focused on achieving Net Zero for the UK and Ireland.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, health perks, generous leave, and an annual bonus scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of impactful projects while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must have a relevant planning degree and MRTPI membership; strong communication skills required.
- Other info: Opportunity to mentor junior staff and engage in company initiatives.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Senior / Principal Planner
Location: Knutsford
Working Pattern: Hybrid
Salary: £50,000 – £60,000 plus benefits
Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a specialist countryside planning consultancy in Cheshire with the appointment of a Senior / Principal Planner. This consultancy is recognised for delivering high-quality, well-reasoned planning advice underpinned by strong practical understanding and professional judgement.
The Opportunity
The Senior / Principal Planner will work across a diverse portfolio of countryside and rural planning projects, including:
- Rural diversification and farm business developments
- Estate planning and long-term land strategies
- Planning appeals, certificates and enforcement matters
- Complex countryside planning challenges
- Residential developments of up to 100 dwellings
- Commercial greenfield developments of up to 25 acres
The consultancy places clear emphasis on quality over volume, focusing on meaningful outcomes that support clients, rural businesses and communities.
The Role
The Senior / Principal Planner will take ownership of projects from initial enquiry through to determination, with responsibilities including:
- Leading planning projects end-to-end
- Developing clear, robust planning strategies
- Explaining complex planning issues in a practical and accessible way
- Preparing high-quality planning applications and supporting documents
- Managing discussions with planning officers and external consultants
- Working directly with clients on matters of personal and commercial importance
- Contributing to a collaborative team structure that supports quality and wellbeing
About You
This role is suited to a Senior / Principal Planner who demonstrates:
- Strong professional judgement and decision-making ability
- Clear written and verbal communication skills
- Emotional intelligence and client-focused thinking
- Confidence in taking responsibility for work
- A practical, grounded approach to planning
A purely rural background is not essential. MRTPI, RICS or equivalent experience is desirable but not mandatory where capability and professional maturity can be demonstrated.
What\’s on Offer
- Competitive salary and benefits package
- Hybrid working and flexibility
- High levels of autonomy with structured support
- A varied and engaging workload
- Long-term progression opportunities for the right Senior / Principal Planner
Interested?
The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates as soon as possible. If you meet the criteria above, please contact Josh Jones at Penguin Recruitment on (phone number removed) or email (url removed).
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Senior Planner / Principal Planner employer: Penguin Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Penguin Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Planner / Principal Planner
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the Utilities and Infrastructure industry. Attend relevant events or webinars where you can meet people who work in planning and environmental services. Building these connections can provide insights into the company culture and potentially lead to referrals.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and regulations in environmental planning and GIS systems. Being knowledgeable about current legislation and best practices will not only boost your confidence but also demonstrate your commitment to the field during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your experience in managing teams and projects. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully led a team or delivered complex projects, as this role requires strong leadership and organisational skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your communication skills by being articulate and engaging during any discussions or interviews. Practice explaining technical concepts in simple terms, as you'll need to communicate effectively with various stakeholders, including clients and local authority officers.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Planner / Principal Planner
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant planning degree, chartered membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (MRTPI), and any experience in environmental planning services. Use specific examples that demonstrate your analytical and presentation skills.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company's commitment to Net Zero. Discuss how your skills align with their needs, particularly in managing teams and delivering planning applications.
Showcase Communication Skills: Since excellent communication is key for this role, provide examples in your application of how you've effectively communicated with stakeholders or prepared fee proposals. This will demonstrate your ability to meet client needs.
Highlight Continuous Learning: Mention any ongoing professional development or CPD activities you are engaged in, especially if you are working towards further qualifications. This shows your commitment to personal growth and staying updated in the field.
How to prepare for a job interview at Penguin Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Planning Expertise
Make sure to highlight your relevant planning degree and your chartered membership with the Royal Town Planning Institute (MRTPI). Be prepared to discuss specific projects where you've applied your planning skills, especially in environmental contexts.
✨Demonstrate Communication Skills
Since excellent communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly. Prepare examples of how you've effectively communicated with stakeholders or presented complex information in a digestible manner.
✨Understand Client Needs
Research the company’s approach to client relationships and be ready to discuss how you can meet their needs. Show that you understand the importance of being commercially aware and how it impacts negotiations and project success.
✨Prepare for Team Leadership Questions
As this role involves managing a team, think about your leadership style and prepare to discuss how you support junior staff. Be ready to share examples of how you've provided guidance and fostered development within a team setting.
