Job Description:

Job Title: Principal/Associate Town Planner

Location: Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester
Salary: Competitive + excellent benefits

Overview

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading multi-disciplinary consultancy in their search for a Principal / Associate Spatial Planner to join their growing and highly regarded Planning team.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in shaping major infrastructure and regeneration projects across the UK, with a particular focus on supporting growth and transformation across the North of England.

You will be part of an integrated team working across planning, economics, transport, engineering, design and environmental disciplines, delivering innovative solutions for both public and private sector clients.

The Role

As a senior member of the team, you will contribute to and lead the delivery of complex planning and regeneration projects, working closely with clients and internal specialists.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and supporting strategic planning and policy development, including:
• Local plan preparation and support
• Evidence-based studies
• Infrastructure planning and delivery strategies
• Advising on regional and national policy frameworks and funding opportunities
• Supporting area-wide regeneration initiatives, including town centres and station-led developments
• Providing expertise on planning and consenting processes, including DCO, TWAO, TCPA and CPO
• Working collaboratively with local authorities, combined authorities, and government agencies
• Supporting projects involving housing-led growth, urban extensions and strategic regeneration
• Identifying and securing funding opportunities, including grants and investment frameworks
• Managing multi-disciplinary project teams and delivering high-quality outputs
• Contributing to business development, including tender preparation and client relationship management

About You

To be successful in this role, you will demonstrate:

• A degree in Town Planning or a related discipline
• Chartered membership of the RTPI
• Proven experience in strategic planning, policy development and regeneration
• Strong understanding of UK planning systems and frameworks
• Experience managing multi-disciplinary projects and stakeholder engagement
• A track record in client-facing roles and business development
• Excellent communication, leadership and organisational skills
• A genuine passion for urbanism, placemaking and regional growth

What's on Offer

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements
• Structured career progression opportunities
• Access to industry-leading training and professional development
• The opportunity to work on high-profile, nationally significant projects
• A collaborative and inclusive working environment

Additional Information

This role may be subject to UK Security Clearance, depending on project requirements. Candidates may be required to demonstrate a minimum period of UK residency.

Interested?

The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones on (phone number removed) or (url removed)