At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead complex planning projects and provide strategic advice across Scotland and the UK.
- Company: A respected planning consultancy in Edinburgh with a focus on quality and growth.
- Benefits: Senior leadership role, professional development, and flexible hybrid working arrangements.
- Other info: Collaborative culture with opportunities for mentoring and networking.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in town planning while advancing your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: MRTPI qualification with 5+ years of experience in planning projects.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 70000 £ per year.
Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading planning consultancy in Edinburgh in their search for an Associate Director or Director to join their growing team. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced planning professional to take a senior leadership role within a respected consultancy delivering high-quality advice across a wide range of development sectors throughout Scotland and the UK.
The Role
The successful candidate will take a key leadership position within the planning team, managing projects from early-stage feasibility through to planning submission, negotiation, and determination. You will be responsible for:
- Leading and overseeing complex planning applications and development projects
- Preparing and reviewing high-quality planning reports and supporting documentation
- Providing strategic planning advice on development potential, policy context, and risk
- Managing and developing strong client relationships across public and private sectors
- Representing clients at meetings, consultations, and planning committees
- Supervising, mentoring, and supporting junior team members
- Supporting business development activity including networking and proposal writing
- Contributing to the continued growth and success of the consultancy
This is a full-time hybrid role, based in Edinburgh, offering flexibility between office and remote working.
About You
We are seeking a senior planning professional who can demonstrate:
- MRTPI qualification with approximately 5+ years’ experience or more
- Strong track record delivering complex planning projects across Scotland and the wider UK
- Excellent understanding of Scottish planning policy, legislation, and development management processes
- Commercial awareness, including experience in work-winning, networking, and client development
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to produce clear, high-quality reports and presentations
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines effectively
- Experience in supervising, mentoring, and developing junior colleagues
- Confident stakeholder engagement skills, including interaction with clients, local authorities, and consultees
- Proficiency with standard digital planning and consultancy tools
- Full, clean UK driving licence
What’s on Offer
- Senior leadership opportunity within a growing planning consultancy
- Exposure to a diverse and high-quality project portfolio
- Strong emphasis on professional development and career progression
- Collaborative and supportive working environment
- Flexible hybrid working arrangements
Interested? The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones on 01792 362 010 or josh.jones@penguinrecruitment.co.uk.
Associate Director | Director – Town Planning employer: Penguin Recruitment Ltd
Join a leading planning consultancy in Edinburgh that values professional growth and offers a collaborative work culture. With a strong emphasis on career progression, you will have the opportunity to lead diverse projects while enjoying flexible hybrid working arrangements. This role not only allows you to make a significant impact within the team but also fosters strong client relationships across various sectors, making it an excellent place for experienced planning professionals to thrive.
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