Principal Town Planner | Associate Town Planner

Penguin Recruitment Ltd; Chichester; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading planning consultancy seeks a Principal Planner in Hampshire + Chichester. The role involves managing planning applications, mentoring junior staff, and driving business development. Ideal candidates are chartered planners with strong private sector experience and excellent communication skills.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in a range of planning projects, ideally within the private sector.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proactive and collaborative approach.

Responsibilities

• Independently prepare, submit, and manage planning applications.
• Conduct site visits and prepare professional written appraisals.
• Provide mentoring and oversight for junior colleagues.

Skills

Communication

Organisational skills

Client-focused approach

Education

Chartered Member of the RTPI

Job description

Principal Planner | Associate Planner
Location: Hampshire + Chichester

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a well-established and highly respected planning consultancy in their search for a Principal Planner. This consultancy is known for delivering clear, realistic planning advice with a personal touch, across a diverse range of projects in both rural and urban contexts.

The Opportunity
This is an excellent opportunity for a chartered town planner with proven private sector experience who is ready to lead projects independently, support junior staff, and contribute to business development initiatives. You will take ownership of a varied workload and play an integral role in maintaining and developing strong client relationships.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently prepare, submit, and manage planning applications, pre-application advice requests, appeals, enforcement matters, and related consents.
• Conduct site visits, research planning history and policy, and prepare professional written appraisals and advice.
• Produce high-quality planning, design and access, heritage, and related statements.
• Represent clients at planning committees, hearings, and inquiries, including acting as expert witness where appropriate.
• Provide mentoring and oversight for junior colleagues.
• Coordinate consultant teams on small to medium-scale projects.
• Drive business development by managing enquiries, building networks, and attending industry events.

Requirements

• Chartered Member of the RTPI.
• Strong experience in a range of planning projects, ideally within the private sector.
• Commercially aware with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Full driving licence (exceptions can be considered).
• A proactive, collaborative, and client-focused approach.

This is a key position in a consultancy that values professional growth, personal development, and high standards of client service.

Interested in hearing more?

For applications, or for more information regarding this opportunity, please send your up-to-date CV to Josh Jones at [e-mail] or call 01792362010