Planning Manager or Senior Planning Manager

Company: Cobalt Recruitment
Apply for the Planning Manager or Senior Planning Manager
Location: London
Job Description:

Overview

Reporting into the Head of Planning, you will take responsibility for managing planning activity across a varied portfolio of development projects, ensuring schemes are progressed efficiently from early-stage strategy through to consent and delivery.

The role will initially cover maternity leave (c.12 months), with a preference for a short overlap period for handover.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage planning strategy across a portfolio of PBSA, co-living, residential and commercial schemes
  • Drive projects through the full planning lifecycle, including:Site appraisal and feasibility
    • Site appraisal and feasibility
    • Submission and negotiation of applications
    • Discharge of conditions and ongoing planning compliance
  • Manage external consultant teams, ensuring delivery against programme, budget and quality expectations
  • Engage with LPAs, stakeholders and local communities to support successful outcomes
  • Review technical reports, planning documentation and strategy papers
  • Monitor planning risk, programme and key milestones across schemes
  • Support wider development objectives through commercially aware planning advice

Candidate Profile

  • Strong experience within a developer, consultancy or client-side environment
  • Proven track record of delivering planning consents on complex schemes
  • Experience across residential or mixed-use development (PBSA/co-living beneficial but not essential)
  • Ability to manage multiple projects and stakeholders simultaneously
  • Commercially minded, with an understanding of the wider development process
  • Strong communication and stakeholder management skills

Additional Information

  • 12-month fixed-term contract (maternity cover)
  • Likely start between May–July, with preference for overlap/handover
  • 4 days office-based, 1 day remote

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Posted: April 28th, 2026