Senior Planner Associate Director

Location: Bristol (Hybrid Working Available)

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to partner with a leading and well-respected planning consultancy in their search for a Senior or Associate Town Planner to join their expanding team in Bristol.

Our client is a multi-disciplinary planning and development consultancy with a strong national presence and an excellent track record across the residential, commercial, education, energy, and leisure sectors. With a growing project pipeline in the South West, this is an exciting opportunity for a talented and driven planning professional to take on a varied and rewarding role.

Whether you are a Senior Town Planner looking to progress or an Associate Town Planner seeking greater flexibility and autonomy, this role offers the chance to work on meaningful projects in a supportive and collaborative environment.

As a Senior or Associate Town Planner, your key responsibilities will include:

• Preparing and managing planning applications, appeals, and site appraisals across multiple sectors.
• Producing high-quality written reports, planning statements, and supporting documents.
• Developing and maintaining strong client relationships.
• Liaising with local authorities, consultees, and third-party stakeholders.
• Contributing to mentoring junior planners and supporting business development activities.

To be successful in this role, you will need:

• An RTPI-accredited degree (or equivalent relevant qualification).
• Chartered Membership of the RTPI, or to be actively working towards chartership (APC support is available).
• Experience working within a planning consultancy or similar environment.
• A sound knowledge of the UK planning system and current policy framework.
• Excellent communication and organisational skills.
• Commercial awareness and the ability to manage projects independently.

Your typical day will involve:

• Collaborating with clients to provide expert planning advice and solutions.
• Preparing and submitting planning applications and appeals.
• Conducting site visits and appraisals to assess project feasibility.
• Engaging with local authorities and stakeholders to navigate the planning process.
• Supporting junior team members and contributing to the overall success of the team.

Our client offers a competitive package, including:

• Competitive Salary: Reflective of your skills and experience.
• Hybrid Working Options: Flexibility to suit your lifestyle.
• Part-Time or Flexible Working: Tailored to your needs.
• Career Development Support: Structured progression pathways and training opportunities.
• Collaborative Culture: A people-focused team environment.
• Exciting Projects: Exposure to a wide range of meaningful and impactful planning projects.

If you are ready to take the next step in your planning career and join a consultancy that values your expertise and ambitions, we would love to hear from you.

Contact Joel Bland on or email at to apply or learn more about this opportunity.