Rural Planning Director
Rural Planning Director - North Cumbria / Eden Valley - £55,000 – £65,000
The Job:
We are recruiting on behalf of a highly regarded rural consultancy seeking an experienced Rural Planning Director to take a leading role within its planning department.
This is an exciting opportunity for a commercially minded planning professional to play a key role in the development and growth of an established rural planning service. The successful candidate will provide strategic planning advice to a varied client base, including private landowners, estates, agricultural businesses and rural developers, while supporting the wider business with new opportunities and client development.
This position would suit an experienced Associate Director, Head of Planning or established Planning Director looking for an opportunity to make a genuine impact within a growing rural consultancy.
Key responsibilities:
- Leading and overseeing a portfolio of rural planning and development projects
- Providing strategic planning advice to landowners, estates, farmers and rural businesses
- Identifying development opportunities, including rural diversification, residential schemes and agricultural developments
- Managing complex planning applications, appeals and negotiations with planning authorities
- Supporting and developing the planning team, providing technical guidance and leadership
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with existing clients while identifying new business opportunities
- Working closely with rural surveyors, land agents and other professional teams to deliver a joined-up service
- Overseeing project delivery, budgets and client relationships
- Keeping up to date with planning legislation, policy changes and emerging opportunities within the rural sector
- Playing an active role in the strategic direction and continued growth of the planning department
The Candidate:
- Significant experience within planning consultancy, rural development or a related professional services environment
- A relevant degree in Planning or a related discipline
- MRTPI chartered status, ideally with substantial post-qualification experience
- Strong knowledge of rural planning policy, development and land use opportunities
- A proven track record of managing complex planning projects and delivering successful outcomes for clients
- Experience developing business and building long-term client relationships
- Strong leadership skills, with experience mentoring or managing planning professionals
- Excellent commercial awareness and the ability to identify opportunities for growth
- Strong communication, negotiation and stakeholder management skills
- The confidence to provide strategic advice to senior clients and business owners
- Experience working with agricultural estates, rural landowners and diversification projects would be highly desirable
The Package:
- Salary £55,000 – £65,000 depending on experience
- Senior leadership opportunity within an established rural consultancy
- The chance to influence and develop the planning department
- Opportunity to work with an established portfolio of rural clients
- Excellent scope for professional growth and long term career progression
- Collaborative working environment alongside experienced rural property professionals
- Additional benefits to be discussed
Please email your CV to Charlotte Powell, Senior Recruitment Delivery Consultant, CPowell@agriRS.co.uk.
Candidate Requirements
All applicants must hold a minimum of an NVQ Level 2, Scottish NVQ Level 2, or an equivalent qualification relevant to the role applied for. Candidates must also have the legal right to work in the UK or hold a valid visa permitting employment.
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About Agricultural Recruitment Specialists
Agricultural Recruitment Specialists is a market-leading, specialist recruitment partner connecting top talent with leading organisations across the agriculture, farming, food and fresh produce, horticulture, environmental, and rural sectors.
Why Work With Us?
With deep industry knowledge and an extensive global network, we are uniquely positioned to connect high-calibre professionals with forward-thinking organisations. Our consultative approach ensures we deliver not just candidates, but long-term value.
Get in Touch
Visit www.agriRS.com or speak to our specialist team on +44 (0)1905 345 155 to find out more.
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