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- Tasks: Lead planning applications and manage client relationships across diverse sectors.
- Company: Join NSB Recruitment Ltd, a dynamic firm focused on strategic planning growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, competitive salary, and performance-based incentives.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team that values creativity and offers genuine leadership opportunities.
- Qualifications: RTPI Chartered (or eligible) with 5+ years in planning consultancy and strong business development skills.
- Other info: Mentor junior team members and engage in diverse projects from energy to residential developments.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
NSB Recruitment Ltd have an exciting opportunity for a highly motivated, commercially astute Regional Planning Director to lead and grow our clients planning presence in the Cambridge region. This is a senior appointment for a confident and experienced planning professional with a proven ability to win work, cultivate long-term client relationships, and drive high-quality planning outcomes across a wide range of sectors. This opportunity is perfect for a planning professional who is already operating at a senior level or a strong mid-level consultant ready to step up into a more strategic and client-facing role. You will have significant autonomy to manage your own projects, lead client engagement, and play a critical part in the regional growth strategy, with the support of an established multi-disciplinary planning team.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the preparation, submission and management of planning applications across sectors including energy (renewables, battery storage, EV, hydrogen), infrastructure, residential, and commercial developments.
- Maintain and expand relationships with local clients and consultants, using your network to generate and convert new business opportunities.
- Lead project teams and coordinate internal and external technical inputs on multi-disciplinary projects.
- Provide planning strategy and advice to clients across the entire project lifecycle.
- Deliver planning appraisals, policy research, feasibility reviews, and Local Plan representations.
- Represent clients at planning committees, appeals, and public consultations.
- Mentor and support junior team members as part of a collaborative and growing regional office.
What We’re Looking For
- RTPI Chartered (or eligible) with at least 5 years of experience in planning consultancy or a similar private-sector environment.
- Demonstrable track record of business development, client relationship management and successful work winning.
- Strong understanding of planning policy and legislation in England.
- Experienced in managing complex planning applications and multi-disciplinary teams.
- Excellent communication and written skills, with the confidence to lead client meetings, presentations, and stakeholder engagement events.
- A collaborative team player, proactive and self-motivated with an entrepreneurial mindset.
Why Join Us?
- Be a key figure in the strategic growth of the Cambridge office with genuine leadership and progression opportunities.
- Join a highly experienced, supportive national planning team with access to a wide range of in-house technical expertise (EIA, environmental, transport, landscape, etc.).
- Enjoy a culture that values autonomy, creativity, and innovation – not just process.
- Competitive salary package, with performance-based incentives and flexible working options.
- Opportunities for further progression into a director role.
If this Regional Planning Director role is of interest to you, please click apply now below.
Contact Detail:
Career Wallet Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Planning Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network actively within the planning community in Cambridge. Attend local planning events, seminars, and workshops to meet potential clients and collaborators. Building relationships in person can significantly enhance your chances of being considered for this role.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by volunteering for projects or initiatives that require team coordination. This will demonstrate your ability to manage complex planning applications and lead multi-disciplinary teams, which is crucial for the Associate Planning Director position.
✨Tip Number 3
Familiarise yourself with the latest planning policies and legislation in England, especially those relevant to the Cambridge region. Being well-versed in current regulations will not only boost your confidence but also impress potential employers during discussions.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your business development strategies in detail. Think about how you have successfully cultivated client relationships in the past and be ready to share specific examples of how you've won work and expanded your network.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Planning Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in planning consultancy, particularly any leadership roles or projects that demonstrate your ability to win work and manage client relationships. Use specific examples that align with the job description.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for planning and your understanding of the Cambridge region's needs. Mention your RTPI Chartered status and how your experience aligns with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Highlight Key Achievements: In both your CV and cover letter, emphasise your track record in business development and successful project management. Include metrics or outcomes where possible to illustrate your impact in previous roles.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for this senior role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Career Wallet
✨Showcase Your Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous roles in detail, especially those that highlight your experience in managing complex planning applications and leading multi-disciplinary teams. Use specific examples to demonstrate your success in business development and client relationship management.
✨Understand the Local Context
Research the Cambridge region's planning policies and recent developments. Showing a strong understanding of local issues and how they relate to your potential role will impress interviewers and demonstrate your commitment to the position.
✨Prepare for Client Engagement Scenarios
Since the role involves significant client interaction, be ready to role-play or discuss how you would handle various client scenarios. This could include leading meetings, presenting planning strategies, or addressing stakeholder concerns.
✨Emphasise Your Collaborative Spirit
Highlight your ability to work as part of a team and mentor junior members. Discuss any past experiences where you successfully collaborated with others to achieve project goals, as this aligns with the company's values of teamwork and support.
