Principal Planner

Job Title: Principal Town Planner Location: Leeds Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading multidisciplinary consultancy in their search for a Principal Town Planner to join their team in Leeds. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced Planner to take on a senior leadership role, working across a diverse portfolio of projects including residential, commercial, rural, and infrastructure developments. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping projects, managing key client relationships, and supporting the strategic growth of the team. THE ROLE As a Principal Town Planner, you will lead and oversee a range of planning projects from early-stage strategy through to determination. You will take a proactive role in client engagement, project direction, and team leadership, while contributing to the overall success and expansion of the business. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES * Leading and managing complex planning projects and applications * Providing high-level strategic planning advice to clients * Acting as a key point of contact for major clients and stakeholders * Overseeing the preparation of planning reports and documentation * Managing and mentoring junior team members * Liaising with Local Planning Authorities and key consultees * Driving business development and securing new opportunities * Supporting the wider business strategy and team growth WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR * RTPI accredited degree in Town Planning or related discipline * MRTPI qualified * Extensive experience within a planning consultancy or similar environment * Strong leadership and project management skills * Excellent communication, negotiation, and client-facing abilities * Proven track record in managing complex projects * Strong commercial awareness and business development skills WHAT'S ON OFFER * Competitive salary and benefits package * Opportunity to work on high-profile and diverse projects * Leadership role within a growing and dynamic team * Clear progression opportunities at a senior level * Ongoing professional development and support Interested? Contact Joel Bland on (phone number removed) or email at