Associate Town Planner

Penguin Recruitment Ltd; London; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking an Associate Planner to lead planning applications and consultancy projects. In this pivotal role, you will oversee complex assignments, mentor junior colleagues, and collaborate closely with senior leadership to ensure high-quality outputs. Your expertise in UK planning policy and strong communication skills will drive successful project delivery and client relationships. This innovative firm offers a supportive environment with a focus on professional growth, flexible working arrangements, and a comprehensive benefits package. Join a team committed to excellence and make a significant impact in the field of planning.

Benefits

Private medical insurance

BUPA cash plan

Discounted gym memberships

Enhanced annual leave

Flexible and hybrid working

Company bonus scheme

Enhanced company pension

RTPI membership support

Access to exclusive e-learning content

Protected CPD time

Qualifications

• Minimum two years’ post-qualification experience in planning.
• Ideally MRTPI or actively working towards chartered membership.

Responsibilities

• Lead preparation and submission of planning applications.
• Manage medium to large-scale projects and client relationships.
• Mentor team members and contribute to professional development.

Skills

Client Liaison

Negotiation

Project Delivery

Report Writing

Communication Skills

UK Planning Policy Knowledge

Education

RTPI-accredited degree

Master’s in related discipline

Job description

Job Title: Associate Planner
Location: London

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading independent and forward-thinking multi-disciplinary consultancy known for delivering exceptional planning, design, and environmental services across the UK. The business is driven by strong regional knowledge, specialist expertise, and trusted client relationships.

The Role
As an Associate Planner, you’ll play a key leadership role across planning applications and wider consultancy projects. You’ll be responsible for overseeing complex assignments, mentoring junior team members, and working closely with the Regional Director and senior colleagues to drive high-quality outputs and team development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the preparation and submission of planning applications and Local Plan representations
• Conduct site visits and assess the merits of proposals
• Advise architects, engineers, and designers on planning submissions
• Manage planning appeals, including written representations and hearings
• Liaise with clients and prepare fee proposals and project briefs
• Provide technical planning advice and ensure financial and commercial success
• Manage medium to large-scale projects and lead senior client relationships
• Negotiate planning terms and manage legal/contractual aspects effectively
• Generate new business opportunities and contribute to bid proposals
• Mentor team members and contribute to continuous professional development
• Build strong relationships with local authorities, stakeholders, and consultants
• Represent the consultancy with confidence at meetings and public forums

About You

• RTPI-accredited degree or Master’s in a related discipline
• Ideally MRTPI or actively working towards chartered membership
• Minimum two years’ post-qualification experience in planning (public or private sector)
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proven ability in client liaison, negotiation, and project delivery
• Commercially aware with a solid grasp of UK planning policy and procedures
• Confident in report writing and managing multiple priorities
• Committed to high standards of professionalism and ongoing learning

What’s On Offer

Health & Wellbeing

• Private medical insurance via Vitality
• BUPA cash plan
• Discounted gym memberships
• Employee Assistance Programme

Work-Life Balance

• Enhanced annual leave
• Loyalty leave for long service
• Flexible and hybrid working
• Discounts on major retailers, travel, and lifestyle products

Career & Reward

• Company bonus scheme
• Defined promotion windows
• Regular team socials and celebration events

Future Planning

• Enhanced company pension
• Death-in-service cover

Learning & Development

• RTPI membership support
• Access to exclusive e-learning content
• Protected CPD time and clear career development framework

Interested?

The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones on 01792362010 or [e-mail]