Job Description
Principal Planner / Associate Director - Planning Consultancy
Location: Bristol (Hybrid working)
Are you a commercially aware Principal Town Planner or Associate Director looking to take the next step in a growing planning consultancy? Do you want greater responsibility, high-quality projects, and the opportunity to help shape a successful regional team without stepping fully into a Director-level role? This opportunity offers exactly that.
We're recruiting on behalf of a progressive planning consultancy with ambitious growth plans for its Bristol office. They're seeking a Principal Town Planner or Associate Director to play a key role in project delivery, client management, and team development as the business continues to expand.
What's on offer
Competitive salary and strong benefits package
27 days' holiday plus bank holidays, plus an extra day off for your birthday
Private medical insurance
Exposure to a wide and varied project portfolio, including urban regeneration and major mixed-use, sustainable developments
A culture built on trust, flexibility, and autonomy
Supportive, approachable senior leadership with a genuine focus on career progression
Hybrid working
The role
This position sits at the heart of the planning team and offers a balance of hands-on technical work and leadership responsibility. You'll support the growth of the Bristol office by delivering complex planning projects and helping mentor and develop junior planners.
Key responsibilities include:
Managing and delivering planning applications and appeals across a range of sectors
Supporting the identification and progression of new development opportunities
Working closely with national housebuilders, land promoters, and landowners
Providing day-to-day guidance and support to junior members of the team
Building and maintaining strong client relationships
Contributing to business development and the continued success of the regional team
About you
Degree-qualified in Town Planning or a related discipline
Solid experience within a UK planning consultancy
Proven experience leading planning applications and appeals
Confident communicator with the ability to manage clients and collaborate effectively
Organised, commercially aware, and committed to delivering high-quality work
RTPI membership (or working towards chartered status)
If you're a Principal Planner or Associate Director looking for more autonomy, better-quality projects, and a clear route for progression within a supportive consultancy, this is an opportunity worth exploring.
Apply now or contact us for a confidential discussion on (phone number removed) or (url removed)
Reference - 63381
