Senior Town Planner Principal Town Planner

Penguin Recruitment; London; Hybrid; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading UK consultancy is seeking a Principal Town Planner to manage high-profile planning strategies and applications in London. The role involves leading multidisciplinary projects and mentoring junior staff while providing strategic planning advice. The ideal candidate will have MRTPI qualification and significant experience in the planning sector. This position offers competitive salary, career development opportunities, and flexible working options.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Bonus scheme

Extensive employee benefits

Flexible and hybrid working options

Qualifications

• Significant planning experience in a consultancy or mixed-sector environment.
• Ability to manage complex planning projects and teams.
• In-depth knowledge of UK planning legislation including TCPA and DCO processes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the planning workstream for multi-disciplinary projects.
• Manage and coordinate planning applications and EIA development.
• Act as a key point of contact for clients, consultants, and regulatory bodies.
• Contribute to business development and thought leadership activities.
• Mentor and support junior members of the team.

Skills

MRTPI qualified

Project management

Written communication

Verbal communication

Client-facing

Commercial awareness

Education

Relevant degree in Planning or related subject

Job description

Principal Town Planner
Location: London

Penguin Recruitment is proud to be representing one of the UK's most respected multi-disciplinary consultancies in their search for a Principal Town Planner to join their high-performing London office.

This position sits within a national planning team that is leading the way in delivering sustainable infrastructure and development. The business has a strong client base across transport, energy, defence, environment, housing and regeneration, and provides an environment where experienced professionals can thrive, innovate, and grow their careers.

As a Principal Town Planner, you'll play a pivotal role in delivering high-profile planning strategies, applications, and consents. You'll work across complex projects that contribute positively to people, places, and the planet.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the planning workstream for multi-disciplinary projects from inception through to delivery
  
• Manage and coordinate planning applications, EIA development, and strategic advice
  
• Act as a key point of contact for clients, consultants, and regulatory bodies
  
• Mentor and support junior members of the team
  
• Contribute to business development and thought leadership activities
  
• Stay at the forefront of national planning policy and industry trends
  

Requirements:

• MRTPI qualified with a relevant degree in Planning or a related subject
  
• Significant planning experience in a consultancy or mixed-sector environment
  
• Demonstrated ability to manage complex planning projects and teams
  
• In-depth knowledge of UK planning legislation, including TCPA and DCO processes
  
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  
• A confident client-facing planner with commercial awareness and leadership qualities
  

Why Apply?

• Join a top-tier consultancy known for delivering high-impact, nationally significant projects
  
• Work in a collaborative and diverse environment with leading planning professionals
  
• Access a clear and structured career development pathway
  
• Competitive salary, bonus scheme, and extensive employee benefits
  
• Flexible and hybrid working options available
  

This Principal Town Planner role represents an excellent opportunity to progress your career with a major player in the UK planning and infrastructure sector, offering long-term development and meaningful work.

If you are interested in this Principal Town Planner position, contact Joel Bland on (phone number removed) or email (url removed).