Principal Planner / Associate Director | Bristol

Bristol | Hybrid Working | Competitive Salary + Bonus + Comprehensive Benefits

We're delighted to be working with a highly respected planning and development consultancy to recruit a Principal Planner or Associate Director for its expanding Bristol office.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an ambitious planning professional to join a market-leading consultancy with a strong reputation across the South West and nationally. The role offers exposure to a diverse range of projects, significant client-facing responsibility, and a clear pathway towards senior leadership.

The Opportunity

As part of a growing and dynamic team, you will lead complex planning projects across residential, mixed-use, commercial, regeneration, infrastructure, and strategic land sectors. You will play a pivotal role in shaping planning strategies, managing key client relationships, and supporting the continued growth of the Bristol office.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of planning applications, appeals, and strategic planning projects.
• Provide high-quality planning advice to developers, landowners, investors, and public sector clients.
• Manage multidisciplinary project teams and coordinate technical inputs.
• Develop and maintain strong client relationships, acting as a trusted adviser throughout the development process.
• Identify and secure new business opportunities, contributing to the consultancy's growth strategy.
• Support and mentor junior team members, fostering professional development and technical excellence.
• Represent clients at stakeholder meetings, planning committees, hearings, and examinations.
• Keep abreast of planning policy and legislative changes, providing strategic advice to clients and colleagues.

About You

• MRTPI qualified with substantial post-qualification experience.
• Proven experience within a planning consultancy, developer, or local authority setting.
• Strong track record of managing complex planning projects and delivering successful outcomes.
• Commercially minded with experience in client development and business generation.
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and report-writing skills.
• A collaborative leadership style with a passion for mentoring and team development.

What's on Offer

• Highly competitive salary and performance-related bonus.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Clear progression route to Director level.
• Opportunity to work on some of the region's most significant development projects.
• Private healthcare, pension scheme, and enhanced holiday allowance.
• Professional membership fees and ongoing training fully supported.
• Inclusive, collaborative, and forward-thinking working culture.

This position would suit an experienced Principal Planner ready to step into an Associate-level role, or an established Associate Director seeking a fresh challenge within a thriving and well-connected Bristol team.

For a confidential discussion about this opportunity, or to apply, please submit your CV today.

[email protected]/01792 940004