Head of Planning

Job Description The OpportunityFutureGen Recruitment is proud to be supporting a long-established, multi-disciplinary property consultancy with a strong presence across the South East. With continued growth and success across the wider business, they are now seeking an experienced Head of Planning to lead and expand their Planning Department.The Planning team works closely with Land & New Homes, Agricultural, Surveyors and colleagues across the wider business, advising a broad client base including farming clients, private and public landowners, and developers. The department prepares and presents planning submissions to Local Planning Authorities, Planning Committees and the Planning Inspectorate.This is a senior leadership opportunity for a commercially focused planning professional who wants to shape the future of an established department within a highly respected property consultancy.The RoleAs Head of Planning, you will provide strategic leadership, drive business growth, and manage a team of Chartered Town Planners. You will also play a key role in strengthening the firms market position across Surrey and the surrounding region.The successful candidate is likely to have significant experience in planning policy, development management and/or enforcement, with a strong understanding of Green Belt matters.Key ResponsibilitiesStrategic Leadership & Business DevelopmentDevelop and implement business plans to grow revenue and market shareIdentify new market opportunities and strengthen client relationshipsLead high-value and complex planning projectsRepresent the business at industry events and professional forumsMonitor market trends to inform strategyTeam Leadership & ManagementLine manage, mentor and develop a team of Chartered PlannersRecruit and retain high-quality planning professionalsSet objectives, conduct performance reviews and support CPDFoster a collaborative, high-performing team cultureProvide technical oversight and quality assuranceOperational DeliveryOversee planning applications and appealsPrepare and present submissions to LPAs, Planning Committees and at appealNegotiate complex applications through the development management processManage multi-disciplinary project teams and external consultantsEnsure exceptional client service standardsCross-Company CollaborationWork closely with Land, Agricultural teams to unlock planning opportunitiesContribute to wider business strategy and growth initiativesAbout YouEssential:MRTPI CharteredMinimum 5+ years experience in consultancy and/or local authority planningProven record of securing planning permissions across varied development typesExperience managing and developing teamsDemonstrable business development capabilityTechnical & Professional Skills:Strong knowledge of UK planning policy and legislationExcellent report writing and advocacy skillsConfident presenter at committee and appeal levelStrong negotiation and stakeholder management skillsCommercial & Leadership Attributes:Strategic thinker with strong commercial acumenConfident in driving revenue growthAbility to inspire, motivate and develop teamsStrong client relationship management skillsOther Requirements:Full UK driving licenceCommitment to CPDProficient in Microsoft 365 (CAD/QGIS desirable)Why Apply?Senior leadership role with genuine influenceEstablished and respected consultancy environmentStrong internal collaboration across disciplinesCompetitive salary (DOE) plus profit shareLong-term career progression potentialFor a confidential discussion or to apply, please contact:Rob HanksDirector | FutureGen Recruitment07855 [email protected]

Created: 2026-03-07