Location
Cheltenham
Industry sector
Environment
Job type
Permanent | Full Time
Job start date
ASAP
Posted date
21/01/2026
Closing date
11/02/2026
Job Title: Senior / Principal Planner
Location: Cheltenham
Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a growing and highly regarded planning consultancy in their search for an ambitious Senior or Principal Planner to join their expanding team.
This is an excellent opportunity for a planning professional looking to further build their profile, broaden their experience, and play a key role in delivering high-quality, outcome-focused planning services. You will be part of a collaborative and successful consultancy environment that values flexibility, professional development, and commercial awareness.
Key Responsibilities:
* Applying a broad knowledge of planning disciplines to secure appropriate and deliverable outcomes for clients.
* Managing and determining planning applications efficiently, producing robust reports and clear recommendations.
* Preparing and presenting evidence for appeals on behalf of internal and external clients.
* Contributing to service improvements with a focus on efficiency, effectiveness, and value.
* Supporting and mentoring junior colleagues, ensuring knowledge sharing and awareness of current planning legislation.
* Assisting with business development activities, securing repeat work, and adopting a commercial mindset in all work undertaken.
About You:
* Degree qualified in Town Planning or a related discipline; RTPI membership is desirable.
* Relevant experience within a Local Authority or private consultancy environment.
* Able to manage competing priorities while working flexibly to meet both commercial and contractual demands.
* Comfortable working independently across a variety of planning sectors, liaising with landowners, developers, and other stakeholders.
* Strong working knowledge of current and emerging planning legislation.
* Ambitious, motivated, and keen to enhance the reputation of the service through quality and timely delivery.
* An excellent communicator with strong written and verbal skills.
* A collaborative team player who thrives in a dynamic and growing organisation.
Interested?