Principal Planning Consultant

Penguin Recruitment Ltd; Yockleton; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working

Progression path

Flexible benefits

Job summary

Penguin Recruitment Ltd is seeking a Principal Town Planner for their Shrewsbury office to lead a diverse portfolio and guide the planning team. The role offers strategic influence, mentorship, and a visible impact on project outcomes.

The ideal candidate will be MRTPI, with significant post-qualification experience in consultancy, a proven track record handling complex applications, client relationships, and business development. Hybrid working is available, with a clear progression path.

Qualifications

• MRTPI chartered status is required.
• Significant post-qualification experience in a consultancy or similar environment.
• Strong track record of managing complex planning applications and appeals.

Responsibilities

• Take ownership of a diverse portfolio of residential, commercial, rural and mixed-use projects.
• Lead on complex planning applications and strategic land promotion.
• Manage client relationships and act as a trusted adviser to clients.
• Mentor and develop junior members of the planning team.
• Contribute to business development and growth of the office.

Skills

Leadership

Client facing

Mentoring

Education

MRTPI Chartered status

Job description

Are you an experienced Town Planner ready to step into a senior, influential role within a well-established multidisciplinary consultancy?

I'm working with a highly respected planning and property practice with a strong presence across the Midlands and beyond. Due to continued growth and an expanding project pipeline, they are looking to appoint a Principal Town Planner to join their Shrewsbury office and play a key role in shaping the future of the planning team.

The Opportunity

This is a leadership-level position offering the chance to:

• Take ownership of a diverse portfolio of residential, commercial, rural and mixed-use projects

• Lead on complex planning applications and strategic land promotion

• Manage client relationships and act as a trusted adviser

• Mentor and develop junior members of the planning team

• Contribute to business development and the continued growth of the office

You’ll be joining a collaborative, forward-thinking environment where planners work closely with colleagues across other disciplines, offering genuinely integrated advice to clients.

About You

The ideal candidate will have:

• MRTPI chartered status

• Significant post-qualification experience within consultancy or a similar environment

• A strong track record of managing complex planning applications and appeals

• Commercial awareness and confidence in client-facing situations

• Experience mentoring or managing junior planners

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

This role would suit an ambitious Senior Planner ready to step up, or an existing Principal Planner seeking a new challenge with greater autonomy and progression potential.

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary commensurate with experience

• Clear pathway to Associate and beyond

• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements

• Strong pipeline of secured work

• Supportive, collaborative culture

• Enhanced benefits package

If you're looking for a role where you can genuinely influence projects, shape strategy, and progress your career within a respected consultancy, I'd be delighted to speak with you confidentially.