Job Description
Rural Planning Consultant / Associate Director
East Sussex
The Role
We are recruiting for a talented and motivated Planning professional to join a growing team working on a diverse portfolio of exciting and high‑profile projects. You will be involved in a wide range of planning applications, appeals, and Local Plan representations on behalf of landowners, developers, and land promoters.
In this role, you will take ownership of your own projects while also supporting senior colleagues on more complex or strategic instructions. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who thrives in a fast‑moving environment and is confident offering clear, commercial planning advice.
We are seeking an individual with strong technical ability, excellent client‑care skills, and a proactive approach-someone who is adaptable, commercially aware, and keen to contribute to both team and business growth.
Requirements
1. MRTPI qualified, with a proven track record of progression and high-quality professional work.
2. Strong experience managing clients at all levels, producing high‑standard written reports and submissions.
3. Confident working collaboratively within a team, with the ability to balance competing priorities and meet deadlines.
4. A creative problem‑solver who can articulate ideas and solutions clearly.
5. Flexible, self‑motivated and driven, with a positive team-oriented attitude.
6. Commercially minded, confident in developing client relationships and contributing to business success.
Competencies
7. Flexibility & Agility - able to manage multiple tasks and projects simultaneously.
8. Initiative & Motivation - capable of working independently and making sound judgments.
9. Self-Awareness - understanding when to seek guidance from colleagues.
10. Proactive Mindset - able to identify opportunities, constraints, and innovative solutions.
11. Organisation & Efficiency - strong time and budget management skills.
12. Commercial Awareness - recognising and responding to clients' varying needs.
13. Commitment to Excellence - consistently aiming for high‑quality output and continual learning.
Person Specification
14. A strong team player who contributes positively to office culture and collaboration.
15. Driven, ambitious and motivated to build their professional profile and reputation.
16. Able to build trust and credibility with clients, colleagues, and external stakeholders.
17. Skilled in developing and maintaining relationships that lead to new opportunities.
18. Strong project management capability, ensuring timely delivery and coordination of all inputs.
Professional Skills & Qualifications
19. RTPI‑qualified planner.
20. Excellent research, analytical and report-writing skills.
21. High level of IT proficiency, including MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook and online platforms.