Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting an established and well respected planning consultancy in their search for a Principal Town Planner to join their Milton Keynes office. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced planning professional to take on a senior, client-facing role within a consultancy known for its high quality service, diverse project portfolio, and supportive team culture.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and benefits package

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

• Opportunity to lead and manage a range of high profile projects

• Excellent career progression and professional development opportunities

• Supportive and collaborative working environment

The Role
As a Principal Town Planner, you’ll take the lead on a range of complex and high value planning projects across residential, commercial, and mixed use sectors. You’ll act as a trusted advisor to clients, oversee project teams, and provide strategic planning advice from inception through to delivery. The position also offers opportunities to contribute to business development and mentor junior members of the team.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leading and managing planning applications, appeals, and development strategies

• Providing expert planning advice to clients, landowners, and developers

• Preparing planning statements, appraisals, and policy representations

• Representing clients at planning committees, hearings, and public inquiries

• Supporting and mentoring junior team members to foster their development

• Identifying new business opportunities and supporting company growth initiatives

About You
The successful Principal Town Planner will be commercially astute, confident in managing client relationships, and capable of delivering high-quality planning outcomes. You’ll bring a combination of technical expertise, leadership, and strategic thinking to help shape the future success of the team.

Requirements:

• RTPI-accredited degree or postgraduate qualification

• MRTPI chartered status (essential)

• Relevant experience in planning, ideally in a private consultancy environment

• Proven ability to manage projects, clients, and multidisciplinary teams

• Excellent understanding of UK planning legislation and procedures

• Strong communication and report-writing skills

• A proactive and motivated approach to work and business development

This is a great opportunity for an ambitious Principal Town Planner seeking to take the next step in their career, working within a respected consultancy on exciting and diverse projects.

If you are interested in this Principal Town Planner position, please contact Joel Bland at Penguin Recruitment.