How do they do it? David Boulton

David Boulton studied planning at Cardiff University and after graduating started his professional career in local authority planning in the 1990s. His switch to private practice came via a stint at Carter Jonas LLP where rose to partner and head of planning in the north before moving to ELG where he is now a director.

What are your objectives in your current role and how are you measured against them?

England Lyle Good - ELG Planning - has a larger planning team in a smaller company than my previous job and I'm responsible for running the practice and fee generation, but I'm a planner not an office administrator, so I get involved in day-to-day planning, which is what I really enjoy. I am measured at six-monthly appraisals where we look at all aspects of planning, business and cultivating a well-established network of contacts and clients - it is vital to deliver, be realistic in what you offer and be honest, especially to your clients. 

What key lessons have you learned in your career that helped you fulfil those objectives? 

A. Be approachable. Being pleasant, positive and creative will go a long way to helping you reach your planning and career objectives.

Be thorough. Only thoroughness in your approach to work will win over planning officers and council members to trusting your assertions, judgement and ultimately your proposals.

Be determined. I love making a logical argument or seeing around, through and past a problem, which broadens the professional mind.