Principal Planner in Bristol

Principal Planner in Bristol

Bristol Full-Time 50000 - 65000 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
TipTopJob

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead strategic planning projects and manage client relationships in a dynamic team.
  • Company: Join a supportive consultancy with a collaborative culture in Bristol.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, 25 days leave, private medical insurance, and more.
  • Other info: Great career progression and professional development opportunities await you.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on prestigious planning projects while mentoring junior staff.
  • Qualifications: RTPI accredited degree and 6 years of planning experience required.

The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.

Location: Bristol

The Role

As part of the Bristol and Cardiff Planning team, the Principal Town Planner will lead the delivery of strategic planning and development management projects, coordinate across private and public sector schemes, manage client relationships, prepare high‑quality planning reports, liaise with Local Planning Authorities, mentor junior staff, support business development, and collaborate across both offices.

Key Responsibilities

  • Leading and managing strategic planning and development management projects
  • Coordinating project delivery across a range of private and public sector schemes
  • Managing client relationships and acting as a key point of contact
  • Preparing and reviewing high‑quality planning reports and supporting documentation
  • Liaising with Local Planning Authorities and key stakeholders
  • Supporting and mentoring junior team members
  • Contributing to business development and networking activities
  • Working collaboratively across both the Bristol and Cardiff offices

Qualifications

  • RTPI accredited degree in Town Planning or related discipline
  • MRTPI qualified
  • Minimum of 6 years planning experience
  • Strong experience within both forward planning and development management
  • Excellent knowledge of planning legislation and policy
  • Strong analytical, written, and communication skills
  • Confidence managing projects and working directly with clients
  • Experience working within the South West and Wales region desirable
  • Commercial awareness and a proactive approach

Benefits

  • Competitive salary and benefits package
  • 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing with service
  • Private medical insurance
  • Pension scheme and life assurance
  • Employee assistance programme
  • Retail and lifestyle discounts
  • Cycle to work scheme and eye care vouchers
  • Opportunity to work on prestigious and varied planning projects
  • Supportive and collaborative consultancy environment
  • Clear progression opportunities and ongoing professional development

Principal Planner in Bristol employer: TipTopJob

As a Principal Planner in our Bristol office, you will join a dynamic and supportive team dedicated to delivering impactful planning projects across the South West and Wales. We pride ourselves on fostering a collaborative work culture that encourages professional growth, offering clear progression opportunities and a comprehensive benefits package, including private medical insurance and generous annual leave. With a focus on mentoring and development, this role provides a unique chance to shape the future of urban planning while enjoying a rewarding work-life balance.

TipTopJob

Contact Details:

TipTopJob Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Principal Planner in Bristol

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Attend local planning events and meet-ups in Bristol and Cardiff. It's a great way to connect with industry professionals and get your name out there.

Tip Number 2

Show off your expertise! Prepare a portfolio showcasing your best planning projects and reports. This will help you stand out when chatting with potential employers or clients.

Tip Number 3

Don’t be shy about reaching out! If you see a job that interests you on our website, drop a message to the hiring manager. A personal touch can make all the difference.

Tip Number 4

Stay updated on local planning policies and trends. Being knowledgeable about the latest developments will not only impress interviewers but also help you in discussions with clients.

We think you need these skills to ace Principal Planner in Bristol

Strategic Planning
Development Management
Client Relationship Management
High-Quality Report Preparation
Liaising with Local Planning Authorities
Mentoring Junior Staff
Business Development

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Principal Planner role. Highlight your experience in strategic planning and development management, and don’t forget to mention any relevant projects you've led or been involved in.

Showcase Your Skills:We want to see your strong analytical, written, and communication skills shine through. Use specific examples from your past work to demonstrate how you’ve successfully managed client relationships and coordinated projects.

Be Clear and Concise:When preparing your planning reports and supporting documentation, clarity is key. Make sure your writing is straightforward and free of jargon, so it’s easy for us to understand your thought process and conclusions.

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at TipTopJob

Know Your Planning Legislation

Brush up on the latest planning legislation and policies relevant to the role. Being able to discuss these confidently will show your expertise and understanding of the field, which is crucial for a Principal Planner.

Showcase Your Project Management Skills

Prepare specific examples of projects you've led or managed. Highlight your role in coordinating between different stakeholders and how you navigated challenges. This will demonstrate your capability to handle the responsibilities of the position.

Engage with Client Relationship Management

Think about your past experiences managing client relationships. Be ready to discuss how you’ve built rapport and trust with clients, as well as how you’ve handled any difficult situations. This is key for a role that involves acting as a key point of contact.

Prepare for Collaborative Scenarios

Since the role involves working across both Bristol and Cardiff offices, be prepared to discuss how you’ve successfully collaborated with teams in different locations. Share examples that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in a mentoring capacity.