Environmental and Planning Manager

Equans UK is looking for an Environmental and Planning Manager to join our Equans Digital Business based from our Leeds office on a hybrid working arrangement. Equans is a global leader in the energy and services sector, committed to becoming the undisputed driving force in helping our customers transition to a low‑carbon and resilient future. Within Equans Digital, we unlock customer value by integrating innovative solutions that enhance energy systems, building performance, user productivity, and overall asset value. Our diverse portfolio is already delivering impact across a range of sectors, including Defence, Health, Education, and Local and Central Government.

Role Overview

The Environmental and Planning Manager will be responsible for managing environmental and planning compliance with a focus on Section 37 (S.37) throughout the lifecycle of the project. The role will initially serve on secondment for the Kintore to Hurlie 400kV Overhead Line (OHL) construction project as a Planning Monitoring Officer (PMO), a key part of SSE Transmission’s Pathway to 2030 programme.

Key activities

• Lead and manage all aspects of Section 37 compliance related to transmission and substation projects.
• Prepare, coordinate, and submit S.37 applications, amendments, and associated documentation, ensuring adherence to Scottish planning legislation.
• Serve as the main liaison with planning authorities, environmental regulators, landowners, and other stakeholders regarding compliance and planning conditions.
• Monitor ongoing compliance throughout construction, identifying and resolving environmental and planning issues as they arise.
• Coordinate environmental management plans, assessments, and mitigation measures specific to overhead line construction.
• Support site teams by interpreting planning and environmental requirements and embedding them into operational plans and construction activities.
• Maintain accurate records of consents, compliance audits, and reporting requirements.
• Facilitate stakeholder engagement and communication, including community consultations and information sharing.
• Ensure smooth transition post‑secondment to other Infrastructure Services projects requiring environmental and planning expertise.

Skills, Qualifications and Experience

• Extensive Environmental and Planning Management Experience: Proven track record managing environmental compliance and planning consents, particularly Section 37 (S.37) applications and related processes within the Scottish infrastructure or energy sectors.
• Knowledge of Regulatory Frameworks: Strong understanding of Scottish planning legislation, environmental regulations, and statutory requirements associated with overhead line construction and major infrastructure projects.
• Project Delivery Experience: Experience supporting or leading environmental and planning compliance throughout all project phases — from consent application and stakeholder engagement through construction and monitoring.
• Environmental Risk Management: Ability to identify, assess, and mitigate environmental risks related to construction activities, ensuring alignment with approved environmental management plans and regulatory commitments.
• Technical and Practical Knowledge: Familiarity with environmental assessments, mitigation measures, and monitoring protocols relevant to transmission line projects, including ecology, archaeology, cultural heritage, and landscape considerations.
• Strong Organisational and Reporting Skills: Capacity to maintain detailed records of consents, compliance checks, and environmental monitoring; adept at preparing clear, timely reports for internal and external stakeholders.

What Can We Offer You

• 25 days annual leave
• 5% bonus
• Private health
• Share scheme
• Car allowance
• Life Cover equivalent to 2 times annual salary
• Employee discount shopping schemes on major brands and retailers
• Gym membership discounts
• Cycle to work scheme
• Holiday purchase scheme
• 2 corporate social responsibility days per year
• Broad range of learning opportunities, such as professional qualifications, collective/individual training, and personalised support programmes
• Attractive Employee Referral Rewards Scheme
• Access to our growing employee networks including Women in EQUANS, RISE, LGBTQI+, Working Parents, YPN (Young Persons Network) and Disability Network
• 24/7 Employee Assistance Program and access to mental wellbeing app

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

In compliance with the Equality Act 2010, we encourage applications from women, ethnically diverse individuals and people with disabilities, along with all candidates who identify with protected characteristic groups. We value a diverse workforce and consider applications that do not meet all technical requirements if candidates demonstrate transferable skills to deliver the role within a flexible working culture.