Town Planning Office Lead - Associate up to Director
Meet Our Recruiter
About the Role
An established planning consultancy is seeking an experienced and commercially minded Senior Associate Planner to take a leading role in delivering a diverse portfolio of planning projects. This role offers the chance to work independently on a wide range of developments, manage client relationships, and contribute to business growth while mentoring junior colleagues.
While this is a fantastic opportunity and senior role, the most exciting aspect is that you could be a future owner within the business and very quickly the office lead.
Key Responsibilities
- Manage and deliver the full range of planning consultancy services across a variety of projects.
- Prepare planning statements, appraisals, applications, and appeals, ensuring accuracy and professionalism.
- Undertake planning history and policy research, site visits, and appraisals independently.
- Provide clear and robust planning advice to clients, both written and verbal.
- Lead on the preparation and management of pre-application submissions, planning appeals, and local plan representations.
- Represent clients at planning committees, hearings, and public consultations.
- Coordinate and manage multi-disciplinary consultant teams on complex schemes.
- Build and maintain strong client relationships, securing repeat and referral business.
- Mentor junior planners and support their professional development.
- Actively contribute and take a lead on business development and company-wide initiatives.
What You'll Bring
- Chartered Town Planner (MRTPI) or working towards chartered status.
- Strong understanding of UK planning legislation and development processes.
- Proven experience in private sector planning consultancy or similar environment.
- Excellent written communication, analytical, and presentation skills.
- Strong project management ability with attention to detail and time management under pressure.
- Confidence in handling client relationships and generating new work opportunities.
- Collaborative and supportive team approach with a proactive, motivated mindset.
- Full UK driving licence (or equivalent mobility).
Benefits
- Autonomy to shape your career and lead meaningful projects.
- You'll enjoy a people-first, supportive working environment that values your input and ideas.
- A supportive culture that values growth, quality, and innovation.
- Salary: Competitive
Why Apply
This is a fantastic opportunity for an ambitious planner ready to step into a leadership role, combining hands-on project work with mentoring, client engagement, and business development. You'll join a professional, collaborative team where initiative and expertise are recognised and rewarded.
When applying to any role through Cobalt, your CV will never be shared with a client without your prior consent. Apply in confidence below or get in touch with me for a confidential discussion about the position via sgreeff@cobaltrecruitment.com or 07458161399.
