Young Planner of the Year Winner
Errin Marshall
Errin Marshall MRTPI is a Senior Planner at Savills in Cambridge and gained her chartership in 2023 following the
pioneering Masters Degree Apprenticeship route. Errin plays an active role within the RPTI and was the 2024 Chair of the East of England Young Planners Committee. Additionally, she has sat on the Regional Activities Committee since 2021. A particular highlight of Errin's thus far is the planning and hosting of the National Young Planners Conference in Cambridge in 2024 where 250 delegates attended a 2-day conference. Errin additionally has successfully secured large permissions for clients including across residential, rural and healthcare.
Judges‘ comment: “Errin’s impressive entry highlighted her active role within the planning community, showcasing her innovative ideas and strong communication skills. The judges were particularly impressed by Errin's mentorship activities, her dedicated involvement with the RTPI, and her commitment to fostering collaboration among emerging planners.
Her vital involvement in the RTPI East of England Young Planners and Regional Activities Committee has made a significant impact, showcasing her enthusiastic and supportive character.
Errin's enthusiastic approach and collaborative spirit have been crucial to the success of the Young Planners Conference 2024. Errin’s ongoing engagement with fellow young planners and her promising career trajectory are commendable.
Errin's contributions reflect her dedication to advancing the field of planning, and she continues to inspire others in the region through her work and mentorship. We look forward to seeing her further contributions to the planning community and are excited about her future endeavours”.
Young Planner of the Year Commended
Sophia Nitschke
Sophia is an accomplished young planner who achieved MRTPI Chartered Status on her first submission while
balancing professional excellence and personal challenges. She plays a pivotal role in major planning projects, securing successful appeals and fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors. A passionate mentor, she leads work experience programmes and diversity initiatives, including strengthening ties between RTPI and Women in Planning. She co-organised the National Young Planners Conference and contributes to sustainable urban development. Her leadership, technical expertise, and dedication to the profession make her a standout candidate for RTPI Young Planner of the Year.
Judges‘ comment: “Judges highlighted her exceptional focus on mentoring, continuous professional development, and innovation, particularly in fostering collaborative work across the industry in the region. Her initiative in designing and implementing new programmes, especially in the key sectors of economics and life sciences in Cambridge, reflects a strong understanding of both political and sector dynamics.
Sophia’s experience with planning policies and her active role in crucial projects have further solidified her reputation as a leader in our field.
Sophia has made significant contributions to both her employer and the RTPI, especially through her work with the Young Planners Committee. Her commitment to promoting gender equality within the profession and her dedication to the development of students and junior planners truly set her apart from others.
In recognition of her commitment and achievements, it’s clear that Sophia is not just a candidate but a true role model in our industry”.