Planning & Development Assistant

A well established housing developer is looking to grow their team with a Planning & Development Assistant. They have delivered an extensive portfolio of distinctive and responsible housing projects that are underpinned by sustainable development. The schemes range from residential estates and inner-city regeneration to exclusive developments and luxury care homes. Their operational reach extends across the south coast of England and up to the M4.

A healthy land bank and strong relationships with Local Authorities and clients alike, has allowed our client to rapidly expand in recent years and therefore an opportunity has arisen to work within the development team.

In this role you will support the team on new land acquisitions, planning applications, research, dealing within ongoing client matters and represent Highwood when necessary.

The role will cover all aspects of development from grass roots to handover with daily functions to include a range of activities to include:

• Viability/Feasibility Studies
• Site Assessments/Visits
• Local Plan/Planning Policy monitoring
• Preparing various documents to support site submissions
• Preparation of various PR material
• Bid Submissions
• Consultant Appointments and on-going co-ordination of design teams
• Assist in the Managing of Budgets and project material
• Attending Meetings
• Assisting in the preparation of planning applications 

We are looking for candidates who are enthusiastic, willing to learn and who have a genuine interest in Development.  Commercial experience or work experience/placement are preferred and a good standard of written, verbal and graphical communication skills is essential.

Candidates require excellent analytical, numerical, presentational and interpersonal skills and should be willing to take responsibility, build strong client relationships and demonstrate a real enthusiasm for the role. We expect candidates to be willing to learn as well as being able to share their experiences and knowledge confidentially and influence their peers and senior team.

Qualifications

We would expect candidates to have a good degree, preferably in one of the following disciplines or similar -  

Town Planning

Building Surveying

Quantity Surveying

Property Development

Estate Managemnent

Law

Business Studies

However, we would be prepared to consider applicants without a degree with at least two years of directly relevant experience

Whilst the role will initially be based from home (subject to changes in Covid rules), after lockdown you would be expected to be in the office 2-3 days a week. You must have a driving licence and access to a car. There is a car allowance available to candidates who have passed their RICS or RTPI APC. 

Our client is very committed to developing the careers of their staff and will therefore support you in fully-funding your APC and assisting you in gaining your RICS or RTPI accreditation. They encourage everyone to develop themselves and offer mentoring and networking opportunities too. You will be paired with a “buddy” when you join to assist you in settling into the company. They have an extremely friendly and supportive culture. 

In return for your hard work they offer a competitive salary, 4% pension contributions (with employee contribution of 4%), flexible working hours and 26 days holiday plus bank holidays. The head office environment is warm and welcoming and provides ample parking and is easily accessible from the M3 and M27.

Please do not hesitate to contact Kirsty Hall kirsty@kdhassociates.co.uk to find out more.