Senior​/Principal Planner

Senior or Principal Planning Consultant – Hereford

Penguin Recruitment is supporting a well-established multi‑disciplinary property consultancy in their search for a Senior or Principal Planning Consultant to join their growing team in Hereford.

This is an excellent opportunity to work within a business that combines the expertise of planners, surveyors, architects, engineers, and consultants to deliver a diverse range of projects. The company is large enough to provide variety and development opportunities, yet small enough to maintain a friendly, supportive, and collaborative working environment.

You will be exposed to a broad spectrum of planning work, from applications and appeals to site promotions, across projects such as sustainable urban extensions, solar farms, and heritage conversions. The successful candidate will manage their own caseload, lead multi‑disciplinary projects, and have the freedom to specialise in areas that align with their professional interests.

This position suits an experienced planning professional from either the public or private sector who is looking to join a supportive team and continue progressing their career. You will be confident, approachable and capable of providing high‑quality advice to clients and colleagues alike.

• Preparing Planning Statements
• Advising on Planning Strategy and Statutory Consents
• Coordinating and submitting Planning Applications
• Preparing and managing appeals
• Attending Town & Parish Council and Planning Committee meetings
• Leading on Call for Sites and Land Promotion projects
• Reviewing Consultant and Specialist Reports
• Supporting Environmental Statement preparation

We’re looking for a professional who enjoys the people side of planning as much as the technical detail – someone proactive, communicative, and able to build strong client relationships.

• Postgraduate degree in a relevant subject (e.g. Town Planning, Urban Design)
• RTPI membership (or equivalent professional accreditation)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong understanding of the UK planning system
• Minimum of 5 years’ relevant professional experience
• Ability to manage projects and provide confident, independent advice
• Experience across a mix of urban and rural development projects
• Full driving licence and access to a vehicle for site visits

• Competitive salary reflective of experience and qualifications
• Private healthcare for all employees
• 35 days annual leave (including bank holidays)
• Birthday day off and additional leave for long service
• Agile/flexible working arrangements
• Professional memberships paid and funded CPD opportunities
• Employee Assistance Programme (including health plan and flu jab)
• Enhanced workplace pension
• Discretionary bonus opportunities
• Salary sacrifice schemes (Electric Vehicle and Cycle to Work)
• Employee loan and staff discounts following probation