Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a well-established and highly respected planning consultancy in their search for a Senior or Principal Town Planner to join their Sutton Coldfield office.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced MRTPI-qualified planner to work on a diverse portfolio of major residential-led schemes for national and regional housebuilders, alongside a supportive and growing team.
The Role
The successful candidate will play a key role in delivering complex planning applications and advising clients on strategic planning matters. Responsibilities will include:
- Preparing high-quality planning statements, Statements of Community Involvement and supporting documentation for a wide range of planning applications with minimal supervision.
- Assisting with major planning applications (outline, full and reserved matters) for residential and mixed-use developments.
- Attending planning committees to present and defend proposals and respond to committee questions.
- Organising and managing public consultation events (online and in person) and engaging with stakeholders and the wider public.
- Undertaking site appraisals and advising clients on development potential and planning strategy.
- Developing innovative and commercially focused planning strategies to challenge established planning positions and unlock site potential.
- Managing and supporting planning appeals, including written representations, hearings and Public Inquiries, with potential expert witness involvement.
- Preparing representations to emerging Local Plans and participating in the Examination in Public process.
- Mentoring and supporting junior planners within the team.
Candidate Requirements
- MRTPI qualified with a minimum of 5 years’ experience in the private sector, with some experience in a local authority setting.
- Strong knowledge of the development management process and plan-making system.
- Proven ability to manage complex planning projects and work with minimal supervision.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Commercial awareness and the ability to think creatively to solve planning challenges.
- Full UK driving licence and access to a car (preferred).
What’s on Offer
- Highly competitive salary (dependent on experience).
- Hybrid working (currently 3 days per week in the office).
- Dedicated car parking space.
- NEST pension scheme.
- 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, plus a Christmas–New Year office shutdown.
- Ongoing CPD and training support.
- Quarterly staff social events.
- A developing benefits package, expected to include private healthcare, enhanced pension and salary sacrifice options.
- Genuine long-term career progression opportunities with support for additional training and professional development.
This is a fantastic opportunity for a motivated planner looking to take the next step in their career within a dynamic and supportive consultancy environment.
Interested?
The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones on 01792 362 010 or josh.jones@penguinrecruitment.co.uk
