Senior Planner

Job Title:
Senior Planner
Location:
Downpatrick, Northern Ireland

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a respected planning consultancy in their search for a Senior Planner to join their team in Downpatrick.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Senior Planner to join a growing consultancy working across a diverse portfolio of residential, commercial, renewable energy, and rural development projects throughout Northern Ireland and Ireland. The successful candidate will play a key role in project delivery, client management, and strategic planning advice within a collaborative and professional environment.

THE ROLE

As a Senior Planner, you will lead planning projects from initial appraisal through to submission, negotiation, appeal, and determination.

You will manage client relationships, provide strategic planning advice, and support junior colleagues while continuing to develop your career as a Senior Planner within a dynamic consultancy environment.

This role offers the opportunity to work on a broad range of planning projects, taking ownership of schemes and contributing to the continued growth and success of the business.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Leading and managing planning applications and appeals across a range of development sectors
Preparing and reviewing planning statements, appraisal reports, and supporting documentation
Undertaking site appraisals and development feasibility assessments
Providing strategic planning advice to clients and consultant teams
Managing client relationships and acting as a key point of contact
Liaising with Planning Authorities, consultees, and key stakeholders
Supporting and mentoring junior team members
Attending client meetings, site visits, and planning consultations
Contributing to business development and networking activities

WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR

Degree in Town Planning or related discipline
MRTPI qualified or eligible for Chartership
Strong experience within a planning consultancy, developer, or local authority environment
Excellent understanding of the planning systems in Northern Ireland and/or Ireland
Strong communication, negotiation, and client-facing skills
Proven ability to manage projects and deadlines effectively
Commercial awareness and a proactive approach
Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team

WHAT'S ON OFFER

Competitive salary and benefits package
Opportunity to work on a diverse range of planning projects across Northern Ireland and Ireland
Strong client exposure and project responsibility
Supportive and collaborative consultancy environment
Clear progression opportunities and ongoing professional development
Flexible working arrangements and excellent career prospects

Interested? Contact Joel Bland on (phone number removed) or email at (url removed)