Reporting to the Head of Planning, the Planning Manager will play a key role in progressing planning applications from land bid stage through to securing planning permission. You will organise, attend and present at pre‑application discussion meetings, proactively driving applications through the planning system. The role includes submitting, monitoring and discharging planning applications and conditions, ensuring all development control matters are carefully planned and managed. You will take a forward‑thinking and proactive approach, providing expert planning advice and well‑considered appraisals on the planning prospects of potential sites. You will also manage the region’s large‑scale development projects, including planning obligations, conditions and phased reserved matters applications. About You You will be deadline‑driven, reliable and flexible, with the ability to work independently and use your initiative. You will bring strong technical planning knowledge, alongside the confidence to advise on current government legislation and planning policy. You will be comfortable managing complex projects, balancing competing priorities, and working collaboratively with internal and external stakeholders to achieve successful outcomes. Knowledge, Skills & Experience: Essential: Proven experience in managing planning applications within the UK planning system Strong working knowledge of current planning legislation, policy and guidance Experience of attending, presenting at and contributing to pre‑application meetings Ability to assess and appraise the planning prospects of potential development sites Experience managing large‑scale or complex development projects Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines effectively Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal Leadership experience, including line management or team supervision Ability to work proactively, independently and make well‑reasoned decisions Desirable: Professional qualification or working towards chartered status (e.g. RTPI) Experience working within the residential development or housebuilding sector Experience managing planning obligations and Section 106 agreements Familiarity with phased and reserved matters applications Experience working across multiple stakeholders, including local authorities and consultants We recognise that a diverse team makes us a stronger and more successful company. We value different ideas and perspectives as it helps improve our decision-making, products and services. And we’re striving to create an inclusive work environment, in which everyone can feel comfortable as themselves, uniquely contribute and do their best work. If we need to adjust anything in our recruitment process to support you, please contact [email protected] About Us The Cala Group is a major UK housebuilder and leading provider of desirable new homes across Scotland, the South of England & Midlands. Driven by a mission to create vibrant and sustainable new communities, our homes are characterised by exceptional design and sector-leading build quality, and we have a passion for providing our customers with a great home buying experience. This is an exciting time to be at Cala. Our approach to sustainability and technology is undergoing a dramatic transformation, and we’re aiming to create an industry-leading experience for both our staff and customers. At Cala, you can expect to be part of an environment which allows you to do meaningful work, while offering opportunities for personal growth. Our goal is to be the favoured employer in our industry and beyond. We encourage applications from those who want to be part of a culture where they can thrive, feel a sense of belonging and be comfortable being themselves at work.