Policy Planner - Principal & Associate

Joining Arup Arup’s purpose, shared values and collaborative approach has set us apart for over 80 years, guiding how we shape a better world.

Watch this short clip to discover how Arup are shaping a better world and how you could be a part of it! The Opportunity Do you want to join an award-winning town planning team, delivering some of the most complex and challenging projects?

We are looking for an Associate & Principal Town Planner in our Cardiff or Bristol offices who will be passionate about growing our policy and spatial strategy business across England and Wales and taking full advantage of the opportunities that the re-introduction of strategic planning and reformed local plan system provide.

At Arup, you will work with experts to shape policy that supports sustainable, inclusive and deliverable places. We work on Spatial Development Strategics, Strategic Development Plans, Local Plans, Local Development Plans and a range of evidence documents. You will join a collaborative team with access to high-profile commissions, multidisciplinary expertise and structured professional development.

We provide a holistic service to meet the aspirations and needs of local planning authorities, combined authorities, central government, developers and communities. You will have the opportunity to work across a portfolio of projects that includes preparing national, regional and local planning policy, evidence and guidance, delivering consultation and engagement, and undertaking research and evaluation. We are looking for individuals with the ability to provide quality technical guidance, argue strategic cases, articulate complex issues concisely and manage projects combined with strong influencing and interpersonal skills.

You will have a strong blend of leadership, consulting and technical skills. At Arup, you belong to an extraordinary collective – in which we encourage individuality to thrive. Our strength comes from how we respect, share and connect our diverse experiences, perspectives and ideas. You will have the opportunity do socially useful work that has meaning – to Arup, to your career, to our members and to the clients and communities we serve.

Is this role right for you?

The role is to develop client relationships, identify project opportunities, lead teams in bidding and delivering projects, develop team members, raise Arup’s profile in this area, and promote our work.

You should apply if you enjoy translating complex evidence into clear, practical policy; value collaborative, multidisciplinary working; and want to influence the future of places across the UK. You will be comfortable taking ownership of projects and client relationships, while supporting colleagues and continuing to develop your own technical, commercial and leadership skills.

We are seeking individuals with the following:

Degree and/or masters in town planning or similar and Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (MRTPI).Good knowledge of planning legislation and planning policy, preferably across both the Welsh and English planning systems.

Experience of preparing local plans/local development plans and/or strategic plans as well as leading the preparation of evidence base studies.

Experience of leading teams in the bidding and delivery of projects, including technical specialists and multi-disciplinary teams and sourcing sub-consultants where necessary, with the ability to lead client meetings and contributing to the development of a town planning business.

Good project management skills, including programme and commercial aspects.

Not ready to apply just yet or have some questions? Contact Carissa Cabrera at
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