Planning Lead

Location: North West
Salary: £35,000 – £45,000 per annum
Working arrangement: On-site, with hybrid working available following successful completion of probation period

The Opportunity

Our client is a growing energy business with an expanding portfolio of generation projects and an exciting pipeline of renewable and flexible power developments.

They are looking for an experienced Planning Lead to join their growing Planning & Design Team. This is an excellent opportunity for a planning professional with a minimum of three years' experience gained within a local authority, consultancy or developer.

You will play a key role in managing planning applications, engaging with stakeholders and supporting the development and delivery of largely solar and battery projects.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage planning applications for solar and battery developments.
• Provide planning advice and recommendations to internal and external stakeholders.
• Ensure compliance with UK planning legislation and local planning policies.
• Engage with local authorities, consultants and community groups to facilitate planning permissions.
• Work collaboratively with environmental, legal and engineering professionals to support project development.
• Monitor and respond to changes in planning policy, legislation and best practice guidance.
• Represent the organisation at planning committees, public inquiries and stakeholder meetings.
• Support business development activities by identifying opportunities and contributing to proposals.

About You

You will ideally have:

• A degree or equivalent qualification in Town Planning, Urban Planning or a related discipline.
• Chartered membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), or eligibility for membership.
• At least three years' experience in town planning within a local authority, consultancy or developer.
• Strong knowledge of UK planning regulations, policies and procedures.
• Experience within the energy sector, particularly renewable energy, grid infrastructure or major developments, would be advantageous. Experience from similar or adjacent sectors will also be considered.
• Excellent communication and negotiation skills, with the ability to engage effectively with a range of stakeholders.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail when preparing planning applications and reports.
• The ability to manage multiple projects, budgets and deadlines effectively.
• A proactive, problem-solving approach and the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively.

Requirements

• Full UK driving license and access to a car.
• Comfortable commuting to and working on-site at the Head Office.

Salary & Benefits

• £35,000 – £45,000 per annum
• 25 days' annual leave plus bank holidays
• Flexible working available
• On-site parking
• Private healthcare from day one
• Professional membership paid for
• CPD opportunities
• Pension
• Quarterly socials
• Use of pool car
• EV salary sacrifice scheme

Apply

If you're an experienced planning professional looking for an opportunity to develop your career within the renewable and flexible power sector, we'd be keen to hear from you.

Please apply with your CV and cover letter, quoting Planning Lead.