Planning Development Lead

We have an exciting strategic opportunity for a Senior Planning Consultant / Development Lead to shape, grow and lead this high performing planning team.

This is a senior leadership role for an ambitious and commercially minded planning professional with a strong track record in delivering planning consultancy services, growing teams, building networks, and driving business development. You will play a key role in strengthening our presence across Northamptonshire and establishing our planning team as the go-to experts in the region.

You will act as the internal figurehead for planning and development in Kettering, providing technical leadership while driving strategic growth. This role combines high-level strategic input with hands‑on delivery.

• Lead and grow the planning and development offer within the Kettering office.
• Deliver high-quality planning consultancy services.
• General and strategic planning advice.
• Coordination and preparation of planning applications.
• Managing post-planning negotiations and appeals.
• Provide expert advice to clients across a range of sectors.
• Oversee and coordinate project teams internally and externally, demonstrating strong project management skills.
• Contribute to post-planning stages, including technical design, procurement and construction-phase services.
• Identify opportunities to cross-sell services such as Land Promotion, Agency and Valuation.
• Build and maintain strong networks with developers, landowners, promoters and agents.
• Increase the baseline of planning and development instructions across Northamptonshire.
• Develop and implement a strategy to diversify and strengthen our planning offer.
• Shape team performance to improve efficiency, productivity and profitability.
• Mentor and support colleagues to grow technical capability across the team.

We are looking for a confident, commercially aware planning professional who can combine strategic vision with delivery excellence.

• Significant experience delivering planning consultancy services across multiple sectors.
• A proven track record of business development, marketing and brand growth.
• Experience preparing and managing planning applications and negotiations.
• Strong project management and leadership skills.
• Excellent people management and team-building abilities.
• The ability to set technical direction and strategic vision.
• Strong decision-making and problem-solving skills.
• A strategic mindset with attention to detail.
• Resilience and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.
• Relevant professional qualifications (MRTPI or working towards).
• A full, clean UK driving licence (regular travel required).

Excellent package on offer for the successful applicant