Principal Planning Consultant/Development Lead

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading multi-disciplinary property and land consultancy in the Midlands with the appointment of a Principal Planning Consultant / Development Lead.This well-established consultancy provides integrated services across planning, architecture, building surveying, valuation, and business consultancy. With a strong regional presence and a collaborative, multi-disciplinary development team, the business combines the breadth of a larger consultancy with the autonomy and close-knit culture of a smaller practice.Due to strategic growth ambitions within the Kettering office, they are seeking a senior planning professional with a proven track record of driving growth, building teams, and establishing a strong market presence.The Role – Principal Planning Consultant / Development LeadThis is a senior, client-facing role combining technical delivery, team leadership, and strategic business development. You will act as the internal figurehead for planning and development within the Kettering office and play a pivotal role in shaping and expanding the consultancy’s regional planning offer.Key Responsibilities:Act as the technical lead and internal authority on planning and development mattersDeliver planning consultancy across a range of sectors, including strategic and development planning adviceCoordinate and prepare planning applications, provide expert client advice, and manage post-planning negotiations and appealsDemonstrate strong understanding of the full development lifecycle, including technical design, procurement, and construction-phase servicesLead and coordinate internal and external project teams, managing risk, programmes, and deliverySupport and mentor junior team members, contributing to capability growthShape operational processes to improve efficiency, productivity, and profitabilityStrategic Growth Responsibilities:Develop a deep understanding of the consultancy’s service offerings and how they integrate to provide a unique client propositionCross-sell services such as land promotion, agency, and valuationDrive marketing, business development, and brand awareness across NorthamptonshireBuild and leverage a strong network of developers, landowners, promoters, and agentsIncrease the volume and quality of planning and development instructionsIdentify opportunities to diversify service offerings and target marketsPerson Specification:Proven experience in planning consultancy and development leadershipExcellent people management and team-building capabilitiesStrong strategic thinking with attention to detailConfident decision-maker with strong problem-solving skillsResilient, adaptable, and commercially mindedPassionate about innovation and continuous improvementFull, clean UK driving licence (essential)Working Hours:37.5 hours per week, worked flexibly Monday–Friday in line with an agile working philosophy.Benefits Package:Competitive salary reflective of experience and qualificationsProfessional membership fees paid and funded CPD and trainingEmployee Assistance Programme, health plan, and annual flu jabAgile working with a mix of office and remote work35 days annual leave (including bank holidays), plus:Additional birthday leaveExtra holiday for long serviceDiscretionary bonus schemeEnhanced workplace pensionAccess to employee loan and internal service discounts after probationSalary sacrifice schemes (Electric Vehicle and Cycle to Work)Interested? The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones on 01792 362 010 or josh.jones@penguinrecruitment.co.uk #J-18808-Ljbffr