Senior / Associate Planner - Strategic & Green Belt Specialist Location: South Manchester (Hybrid Working: 3-4 days office, 1-2 days home/site) Salary: Circa £45,000 DOE + Performance Bonus Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time Chartered Status (MRTPI): Essential

An established and forward-thinking planning consultancy in South Manchester is looking for a Senior or Associate Planner to join their growing and ambitious team. Representing our client - a respected name in the rural and strategic planning sector - we are seeking a highly skilled planner with a strong track record of success, particularly in Green Belt sites and strategic planning.

This role will suit someone who is technically astute, commercially aware, and driven to lead complex projects from end to end.

The Opportunity



As a key member of the planning team, you will take ownership of a varied and challenging portfolio of rural, residential, and commercial schemes, often involving sensitive or high-stakes Green Belt locations. You will have the opportunity to shape strategy, mentor junior staff, and work closely with clients to help unlock land potential and deliver exceptional planning outcomes.

Key Responsibilities



Lead and manage planning appraisals, applications, and appeals from start to finish

Develop tailored planning strategies for a range of rural and strategic land projects

Liaise with clients, local authorities, stakeholders, and consultants to drive progress

Supervise and support a Graduate Planner and Assistant Project Manager

Use digital tools and CRM systems to maintain high project and client standards

Problem-solve creatively and effectively under pressure

About You



MRTPI Chartered (or eligible)

Minimum of 10 years' experience in planning

Demonstrable experience with Green Belt and strategic land planning

Confident communicator with excellent written and verbal skills

Capable of working independently and as part of a collaborative team

Strong project management and organisational skills

Enthusiastic, professional, and client-focused

Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced consultancy environment

What's on Offer



Competitive salary (circa £45,000 depending on experience)

Performance-related bonus scheme (post-probation)

Hybrid working with a mix of office, site, and home-based flexibility

Full administrative and project support

Professional development and CPD opportunities

A collaborative and modern work culture

This is a fantastic opportunity for a committed planner looking to take a step up, make an impact, and grow within a respected and agile planning consultancy.

Interested?

Contact Sofia Conte [email protected] or call 01792 957386. We have many more vacancies available on our website.

This is a permanent role. Penguin Recruitment is operating as a Recruitment Agency in respect to this position