Principal Town Planner | Associate Town Planner in Chichester)

Penguin Recruitment; Chichester; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A respected planning consultancy seeks a Principal Planner to lead independent planning projects. Candidates should be Chartered Members of the RTPI and have strong experience in delivering planning advice across various contexts. The role requires excellent communication skills and an ability to mentor junior staff. Join this consultancy known for its commitment to professional growth and high standards of service.

Qualifications

• Strong experience in a range of planning projects, ideally in the private sector.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Independently prepare and manage planning applications and related consents.
• Conduct site visits and research planning history and policy.
• Represent clients at planning committees and inquiries.

Skills

Planning applications management

Client relationship management

Document preparation

Mentoring and oversight

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?