Principal Planner
Location: Cheltenham (hybrid working available)
Salary: Competitive + car allowance + benefits
The opportunity
A well-established and growing planning consultancy in Cheltenham is looking for a Principal Planner to help shape the next phase of its growth. The practice advises on a high-profile UK portfolio that includes residential schemes, strategic urban extensions, major sporting stadiums, mixed-use developments and large-scale commercial projects.
As Principal Planner you will lead major commissions, own key client relationships and manage and develop a team of planners. You will work closely with the Associate Directors and Directors, with a genuine route to Associate level.
The role
- Lead complex, high-value planning projects from inception through to determination, and act as the senior point of contact for clients
- Provide strategic planning advice on land promotion, development appraisal and planning risk
- Direct the preparation of planning applications, appeals and supporting evidence, and review the work of others to a high standard
- Lead on appeals, examinations and negotiations with local authorities, including s106 agreements
- Coordinate and lead multidisciplinary teams to deliver projects on time and within budget
- Represent clients at committees, public consultations and stakeholder meetings
- Line-manage, mentor and develop planners at all levels, including allocating work and supporting their progression
- Take responsibility for project resourcing, fee performance and profitability
- Generate new business, prepare fee proposals and win work from existing and new clients
- Contribute to the practice's technical standards, thought leadership and strategic direction
About you
- Chartered member of the RTPI (MRTPI)
- 7+ years' post-qualification experience in consultancy, with a proven record of leading major schemes
- Extensive knowledge of the UK planning system, national policy and the local plan process
- Demonstrable success on strategic or high-profile projects, such as urban extensions, mixed-use or large commercial schemes
- Experience of appeals and negotiating complex planning obligations
- Experience of managing, mentoring and developing junior staff
- A track record of business development, client retention and commercial delivery
- Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills
- Full UK driving licence preferred
What's on offer
- Competitive salary and car allowance
- Private healthcare
- Company pension scheme
- Annual salary reviews
- Hybrid working (3 days a week in the office)
- A clear path to Associate Director
- Exposure to some of the UK's most exciting development projects
- Ongoing professional development and support
Why join?
This is a chance to move into a leadership role with real autonomy, from managing your own high-value portfolio to shaping how the team grows. You'll have the backing of an experienced senior leadership team and a direct influence on the practice's future.
To apply: contact Harrison Reed at or on .
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