Principal Planner
1 day ago
Cheltenham
Principal Planner Location: Cheltenham (hybrid working available) Salary: Competitive + car allowance + benefits The opportunity A well-established and growing planning consultancy in Cheltenham is looking for a Principal Planner to help shape the next phase of its growth. The practice advises on a high-profile UK portfolio that includes residential schemes, strategic urban extensions, major sporting stadiums, mixed-use developments and large-scale commercial projects. As Principal Planner you will lead major commissions, own key client relationships and manage and develop a team of planners. You will work closely with the Associate Directors and Directors, with a genuine route to Associate level. The role • Lead complex, high-value planning projects from inception through to determination, and act as the senior point of contact for clients, • Provide strategic planning advice on land promotion, development appraisal and planning risk, • Direct the preparation of planning applications, appeals and supporting evidence, and review the work of others to a high standard, • Lead on appeals, examinations and negotiations with local authorities, including s106 agreements, • Coordinate and lead multidisciplinary teams to deliver projects on time and within budget, • Represent clients at committees, public consultations and stakeholder meetings, • Line-manage, mentor and develop planners at all levels, including allocating work and supporting their progression, • Take responsibility for project resourcing, fee performance and profitability, • Generate new business, prepare fee proposals and win work from existing and new clients, • Contribute to the practice's technical standards, thought leadership and strategic direction About you • Chartered member of the RTPI (MRTPI), • 7+ years' post-qualification experience in consultancy, with a proven record of leading major schemes, • Extensive knowledge of the UK planning system, national policy and the local plan process, • Demonstrable success on strategic or high-profile projects, such as urban extensions, mixed-use or large commercial schemes, • Experience of appeals and negotiating complex planning obligations, • Experience of managing, mentoring and developing junior staff, • A track record of business development, client retention and commercial delivery, • Excellent communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills, • Full UK driving licence preferred What's on offer • Competitive salary and car allowance, • Private healthcare, • Company pension scheme, • Annual salary reviews, • Hybrid working (3 days a week in the office), • A clear path to Associate Director, • Exposure to some of the UK's most exciting development projects, • Ongoing professional development and support Why join? This is a chance to move into a leadership role with real autonomy, from managing your own high-value portfolio to shaping how the team grows. You'll have the backing of an experienced senior leadership team and a direct influence on the practice's future. To apply: contact Harrison Reed at Harrison.reed@vividresourcing.com or on 0161 470 5506. If the role isn't for you, feel free to share it with your network!