On the 16th October, 2025, Abraham Laker came to visit us in our offices! Abraham is an Experienced Town Planning Consultant, Chartered Fellow of the Royal Town Planning Institute, Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, a Founding Member & Co-Chair of the BAME Planners Network and an Associate Partner at Rapley’s LLP. Here is a little insight into what we discussed with him!
Career journey and how he arrived at his current position:
When I graduated in 2008, the job market was tough due to the downturn. I ended up working in retail but still applied for a Senior Planner role at Kensington and Chelsea Council, my local authority. The Head of Planning at the time pointed out that, as a graduate, it was an ambitious move. I admitted that I wasn’t expecting the role but was just testing the waters. However, she offered me work experience instead. I spent seven- or eight-months volunteering, shadowing policy planners, development planners, and even the enforcement and arboricultural teams.
After gaining this experience, I decided to pursue a Master’s degree in Urban and Regional Planning at Westminster University, while continuing my retail job and volunteering with the Council. Upon graduating, I landed a job with Mouchel (now WSP) as a Land Referencing Consultant. Although it wasn’t directly in planning, it brought me closer to the field. Eventually, I decided it wasn’t enough and applied for a Senior Planner role at Capita Real Estate and Infrastructure in Chelmsford. I uprooted my life for the role, leaving London and starting long-distance with my now-wife. My goal was clear: get chartered within a year and return to London.
I joined Capita on December 2nd, my birthday, and achieved chartered status within the year. I left Capita exactly a year later, on December 2nd, and moved to Ingleton Wood as a Senior Planner. My path to planning had been unconventional, but I’d learned a lot during my time there. I later moved to RPS as an Associate Planner, but when COVID hit, uncertainty shook the whole planning sector and development in general.
I worked briefly at a small practice focusing on retail planning, but it wasn’t the right fit. Then, I moved to my current role at Rapley’s as an Associate Partner, where I’m enjoying the work and the team. So, while my career progression hasn’t followed the traditional planning route, it’s been a rewarding journey, and I’m grateful for the experiences along the way.
Working in Private Sector:
The market is highly competitive, with everyone focused on adding value for their clients. This requires a strong understanding of planning policies, maintaining professionalism, and adopting an academic approach. Lateral thinking is essential—when a client asks one question, you need to be able to anticipate follow-up questions, demonstrating your expertise and value.
Being well-rounded and deeply knowledgeable is key. With limited work available, clients are looking for professionals who truly understand the nuances of individual sectors, local authorities, and the communities they serve.
While the private sector is competitive, it’s a positive force that drives professionals like myself to stay on top of industry trends and maintain a forward-thinking approach. It’s crucial to not only stay informed but also anticipate future developments in the field.
Abraham’s advice to young people starting in Planning:
I’d advise anyone entering the field to be open to learning and to take every opportunity to shadow experienced professionals and gather as much knowledge as possible about planning. One habit I’ve developed is listening to planning podcasts during downtime—whether I’m on the train or bus, I pop in my headphones and catch short snippets of information. It’s a great way to stay informed and build awareness of what’s happening in the sector. I usually listen to Room 106 (Planning Magazine), RTPI Planning Podcast and Town Legals: Planning Law (With Chickens).
It’s crucial to stay aware of upcoming changes in planning, as the field is constantly evolving.
I also recommend joining institutions like RICS or RTPI, especially if you’re a student. These organizations provide valuable networking opportunities with current professionals and access to resources that can deepen your understanding. When I speak to students at universities or schools, I always encourage them to use any free time—whether during breaks or holidays—to attend events or even do short work placements. These experiences are invaluable for building connections and gaining practical insights.
Networking:
I really enjoy business development because I love meeting people and learning about their perspectives on the development industry, planning, and more. But one thing I’ve learned is that not everyone wants to talk shop all the time. You can’t just attend a networking event and immediately ask, “Do you have any jobs for me?” Instead, it’s better to get to know the person first, find some common ground, and ask about the challenges they’re facing—not just about their current projects. This approach helps build genuine connections.
Networking is a powerful tool for boosting your profile and meeting new people, but it’s not just about gaining business—it’s about cultivating relationships. However, there’s a fine line. You don’t want to fall into the trap of networking too much. If you’re attending events every week, it can lead to burnout, especially when balancing work and networking. It’s important to be selective, focusing on events that are truly valuable and looking at who’s attending.
Be strategic. Do some research beforehand to know who will be there and what the event is about. That way, you won’t feel like you’re going in cold. And don’t let imposter syndrome hold you back. I felt it for the first few years, but I’ve come to realize that everyone is in the same boat to some degree. Just take the plunge—introduce yourself confidently and be honest. If it’s your first event, say so. People appreciate authenticity, and the more you practice, the easier it becomes.
What is next for you?
I’m focused on continuing to work on larger projects with a range of developers, investors, local authorities, and other key stakeholders. At the same time, I’m committed to my volunteer work and passionate about championing the BAME Planners Network, which does incredible work.
Before the network, there was no real platform to recognize people from BAME backgrounds in planning. While local authorities have become more diverse, the private sector still has a long way to go.
Our network covers a range of topics, from sharing job opportunities to discussing planning matters, new legislation, and how these changes could impact African and other minority communities. What I love most about the network is how everyone is so willing to connect and share their experiences. I’ve been inspired by people like Helen Fadipe MBE FRTPI FRSA and Ransford Stewart MBE, who have always been great role models, both within the network and the wider industry.
If you are interested in contacting Rapley’s:
T: 0370 777 6292
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/rapleys/
If you are interested in contacting BAME Planners Network:
W: https://www.bameplanners.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bameplanners/
To connect with Abraham:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abraham-laker-frtpi-frsa-5294a857/