Senior Planner / Associate Planner
Location: Bolton, Greater Manchester
Salary: Circa £45,000 DOE + Bonus + Hybrid Working
Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a growing rural planning and property consultancy in their search for a Senior Planner or Associate Planner to join their South Manchester office.
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced planner to take on a leadership role within a dynamic and forward-thinking team. The successful candidate must demonstrate strong competence in Green Belt policy and strategy, with the ability to deliver clear, creative solutions to complex planning challenges.
About the Company:
This established consultancy provides expert advice on planning and property matters across the rural, residential, and commercial sectors. Their approach is built around clarity, innovation, and delivering value - with a strong reputation for unlocking development potential across the North West.
With a client-focused and collaborative culture, this is a business that values initiative, clear communication, and high-quality service delivery. Planning is central to their offering, and with increasing demand for their services, they are now looking to strengthen their team further.
Role Overview:
The successful candidate will lead and manage a wide range of planning projects, supporting clients through the full planning process - from early advice to submission and post-determination. You will be responsible for mentoring junior team members and play a key role in shaping the ongoing success of the planning team.
Key Responsibilities:
Manage planning applications, appraisals, appeals, and representations
Take ownership of projects from inception through to completion
Build and maintain relationships with clients, local authorities, and external consultants
Provide strategic planning advice and input into business development
Guide and support junior team members (including a Graduate Planner and Assistant PM)
Monitor changes in planning policy and legislationAbout You:
We are looking for a commercially aware, motivated planner who thrives in a client-facing role and enjoys working on a varied project portfolio.
Requirements:
Experience in town planning (private or public sector)
MRTPI chartered (or eligible for chartered status)
Strong project management and organisational skills
Excellent written and verbal communication
Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team
Experience or interest in rural planning is advantageous
Competent with Microsoft Office and CRM/project management toolsWhat's on Offer:
Competitive salary, circa £45,000 depending on experience
Performance-related bonus (post-probation, based on individual KPIs)
Flexible hybrid working
Supportive office culture with full administrative and project support
Clear progression opportunities and ongoing professional developmentInterested?
The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones on (phone number removed) or (url removed)