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- Tasks: Lead planning projects and manage complex applications in a dynamic consultancy environment.
- Company: Respected independent planning consultancy with a strong regional reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible hybrid working, and opportunities for career progression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on diverse projects while enjoying autonomy and collaboration.
- Qualifications: MRTPI qualified or working towards it, with strong UK planning knowledge.
- Other info: Supportive team culture with opportunities for mentoring and business development.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 50000 £ per year.
Salary: £35k-£50k+ (DOE)
Location: Cambridge (Hybrid Working Available)
I’m partnering with a respected independent planning consultancy in Cambridge who are looking to bring on board an experienced Senior or Principal Planner to join their growing team. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys the variety and autonomy that comes with consultancy life — working across a wide range of sectors including residential, commercial, mixed-use, and strategic land.
The role:
- You’ll be involved in all stages of the planning process — from initial appraisals and site promotion through to submission and appeal.
- You’ll have the chance to lead projects, liaise directly with clients, and support junior colleagues as part of a collaborative and close-knit team.
Key responsibilities include:
- Managing complex planning applications and appeals
- Providing expert planning advice to clients, landowners, and developers
- Preparing planning statements, policy representations, and supporting documentation
- Representing clients at committees and public consultations
- Supporting business development and mentoring team members
About you:
- MRTPI qualified (or working towards submission)
- Experience working within a consultancy or local authority environment
- Strong knowledge of UK planning policy and development management processes
- Confident communicator with excellent report-writing skills
- A proactive, commercially aware approach and passion for delivering high-quality work
Why this consultancy?
- Strong regional reputation with a diverse and loyal client base
- Supportive leadership team who value collaboration and career progression
- Opportunity to take ownership of projects and play a key role in shaping the team’s future
- Flexible hybrid working and a positive, social working culture
If you’re a Senior Planner ready to step up, or an experienced Principal Planner seeking a fresh challenge in a thriving Cambridge consultancy, I’d love to tell you more.
Please email or call Kirsty Tanner at Zodiac Recruitment for a confidential chat.
Senior/Principal Planner - Cambridge employer: Zodiac Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Zodiac Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior/Principal Planner - Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, webinars, or local meet-ups in Cambridge. It's all about making connections and getting your name out there — you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your expertise! Create a portfolio showcasing your best planning projects and reports. When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, having tangible examples of your work can really set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to consultancies in Cambridge that interest you. A friendly email expressing your interest can go a long way in landing an interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a range of opportunities that might be perfect for you. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining our team.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior/Principal Planner - Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Senior/Principal Planner role. Highlight your consultancy experience and any relevant projects you've led, as this will show us you're the right fit for our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about town planning and how your background aligns with our consultancy's values. Don’t forget to mention your MRTPI qualification or progress towards it!
Showcase Your Communication Skills: As a planner, strong communication is key. In your application, demonstrate your report-writing skills and ability to liaise with clients. We want to see examples of how you've effectively communicated complex planning issues in the past.
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 don’t miss out on any important updates from our team. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
How to prepare for a job interview at Zodiac Recruitment
✨Know Your Planning Policies
Brush up on your knowledge of UK planning policy and development management processes. Be ready to discuss how these policies apply to the projects you’ve worked on, as this will show your expertise and confidence in the field.
✨Showcase Your Project Experience
Prepare specific examples of complex planning applications and appeals you've managed. Highlight your role in these projects, the challenges faced, and how you successfully navigated them. This will demonstrate your hands-on experience and problem-solving skills.
✨Communicate Clearly and Confidently
Practice articulating your thoughts clearly, especially when discussing technical aspects of planning. Remember, you’ll need to liaise with clients and represent them at committees, so showcasing your communication skills during the interview is crucial.
✨Emphasise Team Collaboration
Since the role involves supporting junior colleagues and working within a close-knit team, be prepared to discuss your approach to collaboration. Share examples of how you’ve mentored others or contributed to a team’s success, as this aligns with the consultancy's values.
