At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead planning strategies and manage diverse development projects from inception to consent.
- Company: Fast-growing property development and education business in Walton-on-Thames.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance-related bonuses, and strong career progression opportunities.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities to mentor junior team members.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team shaping the future of property development across the UK.
- Qualifications: RTPI-accredited degree and strong consultancy experience in residential or mixed-use development.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 € per year.
Location: Walton on Thames
Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a fast‑growing property development and education business in the search for a Senior Town Planner to join their expanding team. This developer‑led organisation works closely with aspiring and active developers across the UK, supporting the delivery of real‑world residential and mixed‑use schemes. Alongside a successful education platform, the business operates a growing in‑house development and joint venture division, delivering projects ranging from single‑unit developments to large‑scale 100+ unit schemes, including specialist sectors such as student accommodation and supported living.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced planner to take ownership of a varied pipeline of projects and play a key role in securing successful planning outcomes across both joint venture and in‑house development sites.
The Role
Working closely with the senior leadership team, you will lead planning strategies, coordinate planning applications, and engage with local authorities and stakeholders across a broad range of development projects. This is a hands‑on role offering exposure to the full development lifecycle, where you will assess site feasibility, shape planning strategies, and guide projects through the planning process from inception to consent.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead planning strategy and submissions across a diverse portfolio of development sites.
- Carry out site appraisals, feasibility studies, and planning risk assessments.
- Provide clear, practical planning advice to clients and internal stakeholders.
- Prepare and manage planning applications, planning statements, and appeal strategies where required.
- Liaise with local authorities, statutory consultees, and key stakeholders to secure positive planning outcomes.
- Support and mentor junior team members involved in sourcing and assessing development opportunities.
- Assist with the progression of in‑house development schemes through the planning process.
- Keep clients and internal teams informed on planning progress, risks, and opportunities.
- Maintain strong knowledge of UK planning legislation, policy, and local plan frameworks.
- Contribute to internal planning systems, processes, and best practice guidance.
Requirements
- RTPI‑accredited degree in Town Planning or a related discipline.
- Strong consultancy or client‑side planning experience, ideally within residential or mixed‑use development.
- Proven experience managing planning applications on complex or constrained sites.
- Excellent understanding of UK planning legislation and policy frameworks.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to simplify complex planning matters.
- Proactive, commercially aware, and highly organised approach.
- Experience mentoring or supporting junior team members.
- Knowledge of planning software, GIS, mapping tools, or Adobe InDesign would be advantageous.
Why Apply?
This is a rare opportunity to join a dynamic, developer‑led business that is actively shaping the next generation of property professionals across the UK. You’ll work on a wide variety of live development projects, benefit from strong career progression opportunities, and be part of a collaborative and ambitious team environment. The role also offers a competitive salary and a performance‑related bonus structure linked to successful planning approvals.
Senior Town Planner in Walton-on-Thames) employer: Penguin Recruitment
Join a dynamic and fast-growing property development business in Walton-on-Thames, where you will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of residential and mixed-use schemes. With a strong focus on employee growth, this company offers excellent career progression opportunities, a collaborative work culture, and a competitive salary complemented by performance-related bonuses. Be part of a team that values innovation and supports your professional development while working on diverse and impactful projects.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Town Planner in Walton-on-Thames)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals at events or online. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your best projects and achievements. When you get that interview, having tangible examples of your work can really set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to companies you admire, like the one in Walton-on-Thames, and express your interest. A little initiative can go a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Keep learning! Stay updated on the latest trends in town planning and legislation. This not only boosts your knowledge but also shows potential employers that you’re committed to your professional growth.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Town Planner in Walton-on-Thames)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Senior Town Planner role. Highlight your relevant experience in managing planning applications and your understanding of UK planning legislation. We want to see how you can bring your unique skills to our team!
Showcase Your Experience:When detailing your past roles, focus on specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving residential or mixed-use developments. We love seeing concrete examples of how you've led planning strategies or engaged with local authorities.
Keep It Clear and Concise:Your written application should be straightforward and easy to read. Avoid jargon where possible and make sure to clearly communicate your achievements and skills. We appreciate clarity as much as complexity!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to submit your application directly through our website. This helps us keep track of all applications and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Penguin Recruitment
✨Know Your Planning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on UK planning legislation and local policies before the interview. Being able to discuss recent changes or challenges in the planning landscape will show that you're not just knowledgeable but also genuinely interested in the field.
✨Showcase Your Project Experience
Prepare specific examples of past projects you've worked on, especially those involving complex planning applications. Highlight your role in these projects and how you navigated challenges to achieve successful outcomes. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Since the role involves liaising with local authorities and stakeholders, be ready to discuss how you've successfully managed these relationships in the past. Share examples of how you’ve communicated effectively and secured positive outcomes, as this is crucial for the position.
✨Mentorship Matters
If you have experience mentoring junior team members, be sure to mention it. Talk about how you’ve supported their development and contributed to a collaborative team environment. This shows that you’re not only a strong planner but also a team player who values growth and knowledge sharing.
