Senior Planning Managers play a key leadership role within housebuilders, strategic land promoters, major estates and property developers. Operating at a senior level, they oversee complex planning strategies, manage high-value development sites and guide planning risk across large land portfolios.
This role suits experienced planners with strong commercial awareness, excellent negotiation skills and the ability to manage multidisciplinary teams. Senior Planning Managers often act as the primary planning lead for major development projects, strategic land promotion and long-term growth areas.
Key Responsibilities
Leading planning strategy across multiple development sites and land portfolios.
Managing complex planning applications, appeals and major project submissions.
Assessing planning risk, constraints and opportunities for land acquisition.
Overseeing consultant teams across planning, transport, design and environmental disciplines.
Engaging with senior local authority officers, councillors and key stakeholders.
Supporting Local Plan promotion, strategic growth strategies and long-term land interests.
Ensuring proposals are commercially viable and aligned with business objectives.
Providing senior-level planning advice to land, technical and commercial teams.
Typical Employers
National and regional housebuilders
Strategic land promotion companies
Property developers
Real estate investment firms
Major estates and landowning organisations
Salary Range
Senior Planning Manager salaries typically range from £70,000 to £90,000, with higher packages available at major housebuilders or large development organisations. Bonuses and car allowances are common at this level.