Development Manager – Planning & Strategy.
Major Residential Developments.
London & South.
I’m working with a well-capitalised residential developer to appoint a Development Manager to take ownership of major residential schemes across London and the South.
This is a senior appointment within a business that specialises in bringing forward large-scale residential-led schemes, from early-stage land and planning strategy through to planning consent and delivery. Working collaboratively with local authorities, landowners, and stakeholders, the company focuses on unlocking complex sites and delivering high-quality, sustainable communities.
Based in North West London, the role will involve regular travel across London and the South in support of a diverse portfolio of strategically important residential sites.
The Role
Working as part of a dynamic, multi-disciplinary development team, the Development Manager will take full ownership of sites from an early stage, leading planning and development strategy through to the successful securing of planning consent.
This is a development-facing role with planning at its core. The successful candidate will work closely with land, design, and commercial teams, directly influencing value, strategy, and outcomes across the portfolio.
Key responsibilities include:
Taking ownership of major residential sites, leading planning and development strategy from early-stage land acquisition through to planning consent.
Leading the preparation, submission, and management of major residential planning applications (outline, hybrid, and full).
Managing the promotion of sites through the development plan process, including representations, technical evidence, and engagement with local plans and examinations where required.
Coordinating and managing multi-disciplinary consultant teams, including planners, architects, technical specialists, and legal advisers, ensuring high-quality and timely outputs.
Providing planning and development input into land acquisition opportunities, development appraisals, viability, and project strategy.
Leading negotiations with local authorities, stakeholders, and statutory consultees, including planning agreements and conditions.
Managing planning appeals where necessary and navigating complex planning environments.
Working closely with senior management to help shape planning and development strategy across a significant residential portfolio.
What We’re Looking For
Experience operating in a development-focused planning or development role, ideally within residential development, strategic land, regeneration, or a related asset class
Strong experience leading major and/or complex planning applications and engaging with the development plan process.
RTPI or RICS (Planning & Development) qualification preferred, though strong development-side experience is equally valued.
Commercially astute, with the ability to assess development potential, planning risk, and value creation.
Confident managing multiple projects and consultant teams in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent communicator and negotiator, comfortable engaging with local authorities, landowners, and senior stakeholders.
Highly organised, proactive, and capable of working both independently and collaboratively.
Full UK driving licence and willingness to travel across London and the South.
Why Apply?
This role offers:
A genuine opportunity to operate as a Development Manager with ownership of major residential schemes.
Exposure to some of the most significant residential planning and development projects across London and the South.
A clear pathway for progression into Senior Development Manager and leadership-level roles as the business continues to grow.
A collaborative and professional culture focused on quality, long-term value, and placemaking.
Competitive salary and benefits package, including bonus, car allowance, private healthcare, pension, and life assurance.
Dan Petrie, Principal Consultant, Cognisant
07487 795148