Principal to Associate Director Town Planner

An established planning consultancy is seeking an experienced and commercially minded Town Planner from Principal up to Associate Director to take a leading role in delivering a diverse portfolio of planning projects and leading office role in one of their offices in the South West. 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.

*** Please note they are open to relocators who aim to move down to Devon or Cornwall in late 2026 or 2027 with a view to working remote or hybrid from their other offices in the meantime. ***

• 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

• 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)

• 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

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  or .