At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead diverse planning projects and shape strategies across various sectors.
- Company: Join a growing consultancy with a supportive culture focused on passion and partnership.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, company pension, free parking, and hybrid working options.
- Other info: Work in a dynamic environment by the river in Ironbridge.
- Why this job: Take ownership of projects and make a real impact in rural planning.
- Qualifications: 2+ years in town planning and RTPI Chartered or close to achieving it.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
At Pleydell Smithyman, we’re continuing to grow and are looking for a Senior Planner to play a key role in our expanding consultancy. This is an opportunity to take real ownership of projects, lead client relationships, and contribute to the strategic direction of schemes across commercial, retail and environmental sectors—often in complex rural and sensitive contexts.
If you’re ready to step beyond delivery into influence, leadership and commercial input, we’d like to hear from you.
- Lead on diverse and high-quality projects from inception to decision
- Direct client exposure and relationship management
- Hybrid working (3 days in-office, 2 from home)
A genuinely supportive culture built on: Passion | Empathy | Solution Focus | Partnership
The role:
- Lead planning applications and project strategy across multiple sectors
- Advise clients on planning risk, strategy and development potential
- Prepare and oversee high-quality Planning Statements, Design & Access Statements & Supporting documentation
- Manage client relationships and act as a trusted advisor
- Negotiate with local authorities and stakeholders to secure successful outcomes
About you:
- We’re looking for a confident and commercially aware planner who can operate with a high degree of autonomy
- Private sector planning experience (essential)
- RTPI Chartered (or very close to achieving it)
- Proven ability to manage projects and clients independently
- Excellent written, analytical and communication skills
- Strong understanding of UK planning policy and process
- A proactive, solutions-led mindset with commercial awareness
Requirements:
- Typically 2+ years’ experience in town planning
- Full UK driving licence
- Ability to work from Ironbridge office 3 days per week (Monday, Tuesday & Thursday)
What you’ll get:
- Competitive salary aligned with experience
- Company pension
- Free on-site parking
- Real influence within a growing consultancy
Location: Hybrid role based by the river in Ironbridge (Telford, TF8).
Rural Planner in Telford employer: Pleydell Smithyman Limited
At Pleydell Smithyman, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive culture that values passion, empathy, and partnership. As a Senior Planner, you will enjoy the benefits of hybrid working, competitive salary, and the opportunity to lead diverse projects in a picturesque location by the river in Ironbridge. With a focus on employee growth and real influence within our expanding consultancy, we are committed to fostering your professional development and success.
Contact Details:
Pleydell Smithyman Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Rural Planner in Telford
✨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, the better your chances of landing that Senior Planner role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your best projects and achievements. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, let them see what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive in your job search! Don’t just wait for roles to be advertised. Reach out directly to companies like Pleydell Smithyman and express your interest in working with them. You never know what opportunities might arise!
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its projects. Understand their values and how you can contribute to their growth. This will help you stand out as a candidate who’s genuinely interested in joining their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Rural Planner in Telford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for planning shine through. We want to see that you’re genuinely excited about the role and how you can contribute to our team at Pleydell Smithyman.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in private sector planning. We’re looking for someone who can manage projects independently, so be specific about your past roles and achievements that align with this.
Be Clear and Concise:Your written application should be easy to read and straight to the point. Use clear language and structure your thoughts logically. We appreciate a well-organised application that showcases your excellent communication skills.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pleydell Smithyman Limited
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Brush up on your knowledge of UK planning policy and processes. Be ready to discuss how these policies impact rural planning specifically, as this will show your understanding of the role and its complexities.
✨Showcase Your Project Management Skills
Prepare examples of projects you've led or contributed to, highlighting your ability to manage client relationships and navigate challenges. This will demonstrate your readiness to take ownership of projects at Pleydell Smithyman.
✨Demonstrate Your Commercial Awareness
Think about how you can add value to the consultancy from a commercial perspective. Be prepared to discuss strategies for managing planning risks and maximising development potential in your previous roles.
✨Engage with the Interviewers
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the company culture and their approach to rural planning. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
