Planning Manager

Location: Cheshire
Reports To: Head of Planning / Associate Director

About the Role

Our client, a leading property developer, is seeking a proactive and commercially-minded Planning Manager to join their growing planning team. This is an exciting opportunity to take ownership of planning strategies and help deliver high-quality residential and mixed-use developments across the UK.

Role Overview

The Planning Manager will be responsible for managing planning activities across the project lifecycle, from site identification and promotion through to securing planning permissions. You will develop and implement effective planning strategies, build strong relationships with local authorities and stakeholders, and ensure submissions are robust, compliant, and commercially viable.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation, submission, and negotiation of planning applications, including outline and hybrid applications.

• Develop, implement, and refine planning strategies for allocated sites, ensuring timely delivery of planning permissions.

• Manage relationships with local planning authorities, statutory consultees, elected members, and community stakeholders.

• Coordinate with internal teams (land, design, environmental, legal) and external consultants to prepare planning documentation.

• Provide planning advice and guidance to internal stakeholders, including commercial input into site acquisition and strategic planning decisions.

• Monitor planning policy and legislative changes, advising on implications for project strategy.

• Review planning decisions, appeals, and emerging development plans to inform best practice.

• Represent the company at planning committees and public consultations.

• Ensure all planning activities meet regulatory, legal, and company standards.

Person Specification

Experience & Qualifications

• Degree in Town Planning, Urban Studies, or related discipline.

• Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) preferred.

• Significant experience in planning within a developer, consultancy, or local authority environment.

• Proven track record of successfully securing planning permissions for residential or mixed-use developments.

Skills & Attributes

• Strong understanding of UK planning policy, development management, and land promotion processes.

• Excellent negotiation and stakeholder management skills.

• Commercially aware, able to balance planning outcomes against business objectives.

• High-level written and verbal communication skills, confident presenter.

• Strong project and time management skills, able to work under pressure and meet deadlines.

• Proactive, solution-oriented, and able to work independently and collaboratively.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary and performance bonus

• Flexible working options and supportive team culture

• Opportunities for professional development and career progression

• Pension and employee benefits package

How to Apply:
Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for the role to [email protected]