Principal Town Planner

Penguin Recruitment; Eastleigh; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading consultancy in Southampton is seeking a Principal Policy Town Planner to shape policy and deliver impactful projects. In this role, you will lead the development of planning policy documents, provide expert advice to clients, and manage complex projects. You should have a degree in Town Planning and be chartered with the RTPI. The position offers competitive salary and benefits, flexible working arrangements, and opportunities for professional development, allowing you to truly impact the communities you serve.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Performance-based bonuses

Flexible working arrangements

Opportunities for professional development

Collaborative and inclusive working environment

Qualifications

• Proven ability to lead and manage teams effectively.
• Extensive experience in planning policy development and project management.
• Strong knowledge of UK planning legislation and policy frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of planning policy documents and manage complex projects.
• Provide expert planning policy advice to clients.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and mentor junior members.

Skills

Planning policy development

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Communication skills

Team leadership

Education

Degree in Town Planning or related discipline

Chartered membership of the RTPI

Job description

Job Advertisement: Principal Policy Town Planner – Southampton

Overview

Are you an experienced and driven Town Planner with a passion for shaping policy and delivering impactful projects? We are seeking a Principal Policy Town Planner to join a leading consultancy in Southampton. This is an exciting opportunity to work on a diverse range of projects, influencing policy development and contributing to the growth and sustainability of communities. If you are ready to take the next step in your career and lead on high‑profile planning initiatives, we want to hear from you.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of planning policy documents, including Local Plans, Neighbourhood Plans, and Supplementary Planning Documents.
• Provide expert advice to clients on planning policy matters, ensuring compliance with national and local regulations.
• Manage and deliver complex planning projects, from inception to completion, within agreed timelines and budgets.
• Undertake research and analysis to support evidence‑based policy recommendations.
• Represent clients at public consultations, hearings, and examinations.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated and innovative solutions.
• Mentor and support junior team members, fostering their professional growth.

Qualifications

• A degree in Town Planning, Urban Planning, or a related discipline.
• Chartered membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
• Extensive experience in planning policy development and project management.
• Strong knowledge of UK planning legislation, policy frameworks, and procedures.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proven ability to lead and manage teams effectively.
• A proactive and solution‑oriented approach to challenges.

Day‑to‑Day

• Engage with clients to understand their needs and provide tailored planning advice.
• Draft and review planning policy documents and reports.
• Coordinate with internal and external stakeholders to ensure project alignment.
• Attend meetings, workshops, and public consultations to present findings and gather feedback.
• Monitor changes in planning legislation and advise clients on potential impacts.
• Support business development activities, including preparing proposals and bids.

Benefits

• A competitive salary and performance‑based bonuses.
• Flexible working arrangements to support work‑life balance.
• Opportunities for professional development and career progression.
• Access to a collaborative and inclusive working environment.
• The chance to work on high‑profile projects that make a real difference.

If you are ready to bring your expertise and leadership to a dynamic and forward‑thinking team, apply today to join this exciting opportunity in Southampton. Let’s shape the future of planning together.
Please call Katy on (phone number removed) and forward your CV to (url removed).