Town Planner Chelmsford, Essex Land & Planning An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Town Planner to join the Land Department of a leading UK residential developer based in Chelmsford, Essex. This role offers the chance to play a key part in identifying, promoting and delivering residential development opportunities across the region. The organisation is committed to creating an inclusive and supportive working environment, recognising that its people are central to its long-term success. The Role Reporting to the Regional Planning Director, the Town Planner will provide planning advice to land teams and support the acquisition and promotion of development sites. The role involves managing planning strategies, progressing strategic land opportunities, and working closely with internal teams, local authorities and external stakeholders to deliver planning consents for residential and mixed-use developments. Key Responsibilities Provide day-to-day planning advice to land teams on residential and mixed-use development opportunities. Manage and promote a strategic land portfolio, progressing sites through the planning system. Identify potential development opportunities through emerging and adopted planning policy. Promote sites through the Local Plan process and monitor progress with planning authorities. Prepare planning reports and risk assessments for potential land acquisitions. Assist in developing planning strategies to secure planning consent within project timelines. Liaise and negotiate with local planning authorities, stakeholders and community representatives. Support the negotiation of Section 106 agreements and advise on commercial implications. Prepare and submit planning applications, supporting documentation, and appeals where required. Represent the business at planning committee meetings, hearings and inquiries when necessary. Manage external consultants and oversee planning budgets and associated expenditure. Skills & Experience Previous experience working as a Planner within a consultancy, local authority or developer environment. Degree in Town Planning, Surveying or a related discipline (or equivalent). RTPI or RICS membership, or working towards professional accreditation. Experience presenting to planning committees, council officers or public forums. Strong communication, negotiation and stakeholder engagement skills. Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively. Strong organisational and IT skills. Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel to development sites and meetings. Salary & Benefits The role offers a competitive package including: Competitive salary Annual bonus scheme Car allowance or salary sacrifice car scheme Contributory pension 25 days holiday plus bank holidays Life assurance ShareSave scheme Cycle to Work scheme Flexible benefits and employee discount portal Holiday purchase scheme Opportunities for training and career progression This role offers an excellent opportunity to join a well-established residential developer and play an important part in delivering new housing across Essex and the surrounding region, while developing your career within a supportive and forward-thinking team. Feel free to get in touch if interested – marta@zodiacrecruitment.co.uk / 01792 677 005