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- Tasks: Lead and mentor a dynamic planning team on high-profile infrastructure projects.
- Company: Join a globally recognised consultancy driving innovation in sustainable development.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, industry-leading networks, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of planning while influencing major national projects and sustainability efforts.
- Qualifications: RTPI Chartered Planner with experience in consultancy and strong leadership skills required.
- Other info: Work on exciting projects like HS2 and renewable energy initiatives.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Technical Director / Associate Director – Town Planning (North of England)
Location: Flexible – offices in Manchester, Leeds, Sheffield or surrounding areas
Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting one of the world’s leading multi-disciplinary consultancy firms in their search for a senior-level Planning professional.
Are you ready to lead and grow a dynamic planning team working on some of the UK’s most high-profile infrastructure and development projects? Our client is a globally recognised consultancy known for driving innovation and delivering transformative projects across energy, transport, water, housing and regeneration sectors.
You’ll be joining one of the UK’s top-tier planning consultancies – a team that is influencing the future of sustainable development, Net Zero, ESG, and Biodiversity Net Gain. They’re seeking a Technical Director or Associate Director to strengthen their Planning and Environmental team in the North of England and lead the growth of their regional presence.
About the Role:
As a senior leader in the team, you’ll be responsible for:
- Growing and mentoring a team of town planners across the region.
- Leading high-value planning commissions and directing multidisciplinary bids for major infrastructure and development projects.
- Managing commercial and operational aspects of projects.
- Driving collaboration across national teams and contributing to business development efforts.
- Providing expert planning guidance to a wide range of clients including central and local government, utilities, developers and infrastructure providers.
- Supporting career progression and technical development of junior team members.
Key Projects Include:
- National infrastructure schemes such as HS2, Transpennine Route Upgrade, and major National Highways road programmes.
- Renewable energy and low carbon schemes including offshore wind, hydrogen, and nuclear.
- Strategic land and housing projects in partnership with Homes England and local authorities.
- Planning advisory work to central government and regional growth partnerships.
What We’re Looking For:
- RTPI Chartered Planner with a degree or postgrad qualification in Town Planning.
- Proven experience in consultancy or multidisciplinary environments.
- Strong track record in leading complex infrastructure or development projects.
- Excellent client-facing, commercial and team leadership skills.
- Ability to lead business development and build strategic relationships.
- A collaborative, forward-thinking approach with a passion for innovation and sustainability.
Why Join?
You’ll be part of a business that offers more than just a job – this is a platform for influence, innovation, and leadership in planning. With industry-leading employee networks, ED&I commitments, and flexible working arrangements, this is a place where you can thrive professionally and personally.
Whether your background is in strategic planning, infrastructure delivery, or client-side advisory – if you’re looking to shape the future of planning in a high-impact role, we want to hear from you.
Interested?
Apply today or contact Josh at Penguin Recruitment for a confidential conversation.
or 01792 362 010
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Technical Director / Associate Director employer: Penguin Recruitment Ltd
Contact Detail:
Penguin Recruitment Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical Director / Associate Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the town planning sector, especially those who are already working in consultancy roles. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends in infrastructure and development projects.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by discussing any previous experience where you mentored or led a team. Highlight specific examples of how you contributed to the growth and success of your team members, as this is crucial for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the key projects mentioned in the job description, such as HS2 and renewable energy schemes. Being knowledgeable about these initiatives will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role and the company's mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your approach to business development and building strategic relationships. Think of examples where you've successfully collaborated with clients or stakeholders to drive project success, as this will be a key aspect of the position.
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Director / Associate Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in town planning, particularly in leading complex infrastructure projects. Emphasise your RTPI Chartered status and any specific achievements that align with the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for sustainable development and innovation in planning. Mention specific projects or experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead teams and manage high-value commissions.
Highlight Leadership Skills: In your application, focus on your leadership experience. Provide examples of how you've mentored junior planners and contributed to business development efforts in previous roles.
Showcase Relevant Projects: Include details about significant projects you've worked on, especially those related to national infrastructure or renewable energy. This will help illustrate your expertise and suitability for the role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Penguin Recruitment Ltd
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Technical Director or Associate Director, you'll be expected to lead and mentor a team. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences, how you've developed others, and your approach to fostering collaboration within a team.
✨Demonstrate Your Project Experience
Highlight your experience with high-value planning commissions and complex infrastructure projects. Be ready to provide specific examples of projects you've led, the challenges faced, and how you successfully navigated them.
✨Understand the Company's Vision
Research the consultancy's key projects and their commitment to sustainability and innovation. Show that you align with their values by discussing how your own goals and experiences contribute to these areas.
✨Prepare for Client-Facing Scenarios
Since the role involves providing expert guidance to various clients, prepare to discuss your client management skills. Think of examples where you've built strategic relationships and how you've handled challenging client interactions.
