Gemma Jenkinson

"To do what I do I need to be able to lead a team – trainer.I need to be able to find out information – investigator.I need to take a real interest in the world around me - developer."

"I work as part of a project team to obtain planning permission on sites. I assist developers in maximising the value of their land assets.I will prepare and submit planning applications and appeals, working closely with architects, highways consultants, acoustic engineers, archaeologists, heritage consultants, ecologists and many more specialisms. The part I enjoy the most is telling a client we have been successful and seeing the end result – driving past a site and knowing that the houses/buildings are there because I obtained planning permission for them gives me a real buzz.I also work as a Non-Salaried Inspector, for the Planning Inspectorate, determining written reps appeals for developers who have challenged a decision made by the Council."

"I loved human Geography in School and thus followed on to do a degree in Geography, which then led on to a post grad in City and Regional Planning. I undertook some work experience along the way with a number of local planning consultancies and decided that was what I wanted to do. After my degrees, I worked as a Research Assistant at Cardiff University. One of the projects was working with some London based consultancies, which led to me taking my first role as a Planning Assistant at a London based consultancy.I would say don’t be afraid to change jobs if you feel under valued or disrespected. Always have an opinion and a voice. Be optimistic and people will like working with you. You can have it all – a family and a career – it is stressful but possible!"

"In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family, undertaking walks in the countryside with the dog, skiing, eating, drinking and going to the spa."

"I usually start at my desk, reading and catching up on emails.I may go out to a meeting with a client or have a site visit.I will be in the office researching sites and looking at council websites digging out information.I will be writing reports.I will be on the phone to colleagues and clients.I will be leading my team to submit planning applications or appeals.I will be liaising with architects and other consultants involved in the projects.I will be advising clients whether sites have the potential to achieve planning permission and assisting in their and acquisitions and disposals."

"A Levels – English Lit, French, GeographyBSc GeographyMSc City and Regional Planning"