Senior / Associate Planner - Strategic & Green Belt Specialist
Location: South Manchester (Hybrid Working: 3-4 days office, 1-2 days home/site)
Salary: Circa £45,000 DOE + Performance Bonus
Job Type: Permanent, Full-Time
Chartered Status (MRTPI): Essential
An established and forward-thinking planning consultancy in South Manchester is looking for a Senior or Associate Planner to join their growing and ambitious team. Representing our client - a respected name in the rural and strategic planning sector - we are seeking a highly skilled planner with a strong track record of success, particularly in Green Belt sites and strategic planning.
This role will suit someone who is technically astute, commercially aware, and driven to lead complex projects from end to end.
The Opportunity
As a key member of the planning team, you will take ownership of a varied and challenging portfolio of rural, residential, and commercial schemes, often involving sensitive or high-stakes Green Belt locations. You will have the opportunity to shape strategy, mentor junior staff, and work closely with clients to help unlock land potential and deliver exceptional planning outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
Lead and manage planning appraisals, applications, and appeals from start to finish
Develop tailored planning strategies for a range of rural and strategic land projects
Liaise with clients, local authorities, stakeholders, and consultants to drive progress
Supervise and support a Graduate Planner and Assistant Project Manager
Use digital tools and CRM systems to maintain high project and client standards
Problem-solve creatively and effectively under pressure
About You
MRTPI Chartered (or eligible)
Minimum of 10 years' experience in planning
Demonstrable experience with Green Belt and strategic land planning
Confident communicator with excellent written and verbal skills
Capable of working independently and as part of a collaborative team
Strong project management and organisational skills
Enthusiastic, professional, and client-focused
Comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced consultancy environment
What's on Offer
Competitive salary (circa £45,000 depending on experience)
Performance-related bonus scheme (post-probation)
Hybrid working with a mix of office, site, and home-based flexibility
Full administrative and project support
Professional development and CPD opportunities
A collaborative and modern work culture
This is a fantastic opportunity for a committed planner looking to take a step up, make an impact, and grow within a respected and agile planning consultancy.
Interested?
Contact Sofia Conte (url removed) or call (phone number removed). We have many more vacancies available on our website.
This is a permanent role. Penguin Recruitment is operating as a Recruitment Agency in respect to this position