Principal Planner

About the role

Penguin Recruitment is supporting a leading planning, development economics and design consultancy. Based in Cardiff, you will join the planning team to deliver strategic planning, development management and project coordination for high‑profile private and public sector schemes across Wales and England.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and deliver strategic planning and development management plans for complex projects.
• Coordinate project activities, ensuring timelines, budgets and client expectations are met.
• Engage with clients, stakeholders and authorities to secure planning approvals.
• Prepare analytical reports and written submissions that influence decision‑making.
• Support junior team members and contribute to business development initiatives.

Required profile

• MRTPI qualification (or equivalent).
• Commercial mindset with the ability to apply planning knowledge in a broader property context.
• Strong analytical and written communication skills, confident at all stakeholder levels.
• Energetic, proactive attitude with a willingness to learn and develop.
• Proven client‑facing experience and effective project management capability.

Required skills

What we offer

• Competitive salary £40,000‑£50,000 per year, dependent on experience.
• 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays, increasing to 30 days.
• Pension scheme (salary sacrifice), private medical insurance, life assurance.
• Employee Assistance Programme, retail and lifestyle discounts, Cycle‑to‑Work scheme.
• Eye‑care vouchers, staff referral bonus, discounted property and financial services.