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- Tasks: Manage residential planning applications and promote sites through the Local Plan process.
- Company: Award-winning housebuilder with a strong reputation in Kent.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, bonus structure, car allowance, pension, and private medical.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team and make a real impact on high-quality residential developments.
- Qualifications: 4+ years UK experience in planning; MRTPI desirable but not essential.
- Other info: Hybrid working available; must hold a full UK driving licence.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Opportunity Snapshot: Calling all Kent-based Planners - one of our residential developer clients is looking to grow their Planning Team with a Senior Planning Manager level. If 2026 is the year you move client-side, this one is worth a look.
The Headlines:
- Title: Planning Manager (Experienced Senior/Principal Planner)
- Experience required: 4+ Years UK experience (open to private or public sector/developer)
- Salary: £50,000 - £60,000 DOE
- Location: West Malling, Kent
- Type of Company: Award-winning Kent-based housebuilder
- Hybrid working: Yes - up to 2 days WFH post-probation
- Benefits: Bonus structure + car allowance / EV scheme, pension, private medical, and more!
Who Are They? A well-established, award-winning Kent-based housebuilder with a strong reputation for delivering high-quality residential developments across Kent and surrounding areas. Working on an exciting pipeline, they are actively growing their office based in a lovely part of Kent - West Malling!
Who They’re Looking For: A commercially minded Senior Planner with proven UK experience - open to someone from a private sector consultancy, local authority, or another developer! You will be managing residential planning applications and/or promoting sites through the Local Plan process. This opportunity is ideal for someone who wants real exposure from early site identification through to securing planning permission within a developer environment. MRTPI is desirable but not essential.
Please Note: Our client does not offer visa sponsorship and applicants must hold a full UK driving licence.
Planning Manager employer: Vella Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Vella Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Planning Manager
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the planning sector, attend local events, and join relevant online groups. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company and their projects, especially if they’re an award-winning housebuilder. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their needs and showcase your passion for residential planning.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role. It keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of opportunities listed, and applying directly can sometimes give you an edge. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications all in one place!
We think you need these skills to ace Planning Manager
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Planning Manager role. Highlight your relevant experience in managing residential planning applications and any work with local authorities or developers. We want to see how your background aligns with what our client is looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for this role. Mention your passion for residential development and how your skills can contribute to the team. Remember, we love a personal touch!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! If you've successfully secured planning permissions or managed complex projects, let us know. Numbers and specific examples can really make your application stand out.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to keep track of your application status. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!
How to prepare for a job interview at Vella Recruitment
✨Know Your Planning Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK planning regulations and processes. Familiarise yourself with recent case studies or developments in Kent, as this will show your genuine interest and expertise in the field.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare to discuss specific projects you've worked on, especially those involving residential planning applications. Highlight your role in these projects and any challenges you overcame, as this will demonstrate your problem-solving skills and experience.
✨Understand the Company
Research the housebuilder's recent projects and their reputation in the industry. Knowing their values and what makes them stand out will help you tailor your answers and show that you're a good fit for their team.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the company's future projects or their approach to site identification and planning permissions. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company aligns with your career goals.
