Senior Planner

Position overview

We're looking for a Senior Planner to join our Sussex Studio, helping to deliver exceptional town planning services on projects spanning the public and private sectors – from major regeneration schemes to complex infrastructure developments.

About ECE

ECE Planning is part of the ECE Group – a multi-disciplinary design practice with studios in Worthing, London and Bristol. We work across architecture, urban design and planning to deliver high-quality, sustainable developments for a diverse range of clients.

The role

As a Senior Planner, you'll play an integral role within our growing planning team, supporting projects from concept to completion. You'll take responsibility for your own caseload, as well as contributing to larger multi-disciplinary projects alongside our architects and urban designers.

This role offers the opportunity to work directly with clients, local authorities and consultants, with scope to develop your leadership and commercial skills as part of a collaborative, supportive team.

Key responsibilities

• Preparing, submitting and managing planning applications, appeals and associated consents.
• Conducting planning research, policy reviews and providing clear, professional advice to clients.
• Drafting planning statements, appraisals, appeal documents and community engagement materials.
• Coordinating multi-disciplinary project teams and liaising with local authorities and statutory bodies.
• Supporting public consultation and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Assisting with client relationship management and contributing to business development and marketing initiatives.
• Supporting the continued development of the planning team and sharing knowledge with colleagues.

About you

We're looking for a confident and capable professional who can manage projects independently while contributing positively to a team environment. You'll be proactive, well-organised and able to communicate effectively with colleagues, clients and stakeholders.

Essential Skills and Experience

• A degree (or equivalent) in a relevant planning discipline.
• MRTPI qualification (or eligibility for full membership).
• Minimum 5 years' professional experience in town planning.
• Excellent report writing and analytical skills, with a strong attention to detail.
• Experience working on significant or complex development projects.
• A proactive, adaptable and collaborative approach.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills'

Culture

ECE is a collaboratively run practice, we encourage a good work-life balance for our team, based on mutual respect and equal opportunities.

ECE Planning offers an array of employee benefits, including regular social gatherings, European study trips, enhanced maternity/paternity pay, Employee Assistance Programme, eye care supplement and free fruit. We have a comprehensive internal and external CPD programme, mentor programme, regular organised site visits and support skill development. We regularly hold networking events including Women in Construction Sussex and charitable activities.

At ECE, we are committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: £40,000.00-£45,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• Company pension
• Employee mentoring programme
• Enhanced maternity leave
• Enhanced paternity leave
• Free parking
• Sick pay

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Worthing BN11 2EN: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (preferred)

Experience:

• Town Planning: 5 years (preferred)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person