Principal Town Planner | Associate Town Planner in Chichester)

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

Job summary

A leading planning consultancy is seeking a Principal Planner to lead projects and support junior staff. This role involves managing planning applications, conducting site visits, and driving business development initiatives. The ideal candidate is a Chartered Member of the RTPI with strong experience in the private sector and excellent communication skills.

Qualifications

• Proven private sector experience in planning.
• Strong experience in a range of planning projects.
• Full driving licence (exceptions can be considered).

Responsibilities

• Independently prepare and manage planning applications.
• Conduct site visits and prepare professional appraisals.
• Mentor and oversee junior colleagues.

Skills

Communication

Organisational skills

Attention to detail

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?