Senior Planning Research Lead

Matco Group, a leader in UK property development, structural engineering, and construction, seeks a Senior Planning Research Lead to remotely join their dynamic team. This role suits an intelligent, analytical professional with 0 to 2 years of experience or fresh graduates demonstrating exceptional research capabilities and a strong interest in property, engineering, and construction. The Senior Planning Research Lead plays a crucial role in identifying property development opportunities by conducting detailed research on UK planning applications through various planning portals. In addition to carrying out thorough market research, this position entails managing a small team of two members to enhance lead generation and strategic planning efforts, ensuring effective coordination and high-quality output. The ideal candidate holds a degree in Civil Engineering, Architecture, Urban Planning, Town Planning, or Construction Management and possesses key skills in market research methodologies, data analysis, qualitative research, and survey design. The role demands excellent communication skills, strong internet research acumen, and the ability to interpret maps, property drawings, and layouts. Using advanced software tools such as Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets, the incumbent will maintain organized tracking systems and prepare comprehensive reports to support decision-making. By diligently monitoring and analyzing daily planning applications, this position directly contributes to Matcos success in capitalizing on emerging development prospects and delivering strategic insights to the wider team.
Responsibilities
Conduct daily research on UK planning portals to identify and analyze development projects, including loft conversions, rear extensions, structural alterations, new builds, flat conversions, commercial-to-residential schemes, basement projects, and large redevelopment opportunities.

Monitor planning applications through all stages from submission through to decisions including approvals, refusals, and lapsed permissions to identify timely opportunities for structural engineering services.

Systematically research and identify land and development sites with high potential, including corner plots, large gardens, detached houses on sizable plots, commercial buildings amenable to conversion, airspace development possibilities, and underutilized sites with existing permissions.

Gather and verify comprehensive contact information for property owners and companies, including names, email addresses, phone numbers, land registry data, and estate agent contacts to support outreach and lead management.

Maintain detailed, organized spreadsheets tracking property addresses, planning references, site potentials, contact details, status updates, and outreach history to ensure efficient lead management and follow-up.

Lead, mentor, and coordinate a team of two researchers, delegating tasks effectively to maximize research output and maintain high quality and accuracy across all deliverables.

Prepare clear presentation materials and detailed reports summarizing research findings, market trends, and actionable development insights to support strategic planning initiatives within the company.

Apply strong analytical and problem-solving skills to interpret complex data related to property development and urban planning, applying sound judgment to identify actionable leads.

Utilize software tools such as Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, Google Maps, and CRM systems proficiently to support data management, spatial analysis, and reporting.

Communicate research outcomes and project status regularly to internal stakeholders, ensuring transparency and alignment with company goals.

Demonstrate a strong work ethic, proactive approach, and continuous learning attitude to keep abreast of industry changes, planning policies, and new research methodologies relevant to property development and structural engineering.