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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead high-profile planning projects and mentor junior team members.
- Company: Join a respected consultancy with ambitious growth plans in Birmingham.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, private medical insurance, 27 days holiday, and hybrid working.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive environment that values innovation and offers real progression opportunities.
- Qualifications: RTPI qualified with significant experience in consultancy or private sector planning.
- Other info: Contact Joel Bland for more details about this standout opportunity.
Job Title: Associate Director | Director – Town Planning
Ensure all your application information is up to date and in order before applying for this opportunity.
Location: Birmingham
Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a nationally recognised and forward-thinking planning consultancy in the appointment of an Associate Planning Director / Planning Director to play a key role in the continued growth of its Birmingham office.
This is a senior leadership opportunity for an ambitious planning professional looking to shape regional strategy, develop new business opportunities, and lead the delivery of major planning projects across the UK.
The Opportunity
The successful candidate will join a consultancy with ambitious growth plans and a strong reputation for delivering high-quality planning advice on complex and high-profile schemes. Projects include urban regeneration initiatives and major mixed-use sustainable urban extensions, working with national housebuilders, land promoters, and landowners.
You will become a key member of the regional leadership team, helping to drive business growth while mentoring and developing planning colleagues.
The Role
As Associate Planning Director / Planning Director, you will:
Play a central role in the growth strategy of the Birmingham office
Identify, secure, and deliver new development opportunities
Lead major planning applications and appeals for large-scale mixed-use schemes
Provide strategic planning advice to a diverse client base
Manage and inspire a high-performing planning team
Maintain and develop strong client relationships
Ensure the delivery of high-quality work to agreed timescales
Requirements
To be considered for this role, you will have:
A degree in Town Planning or a related discipline
Significant experience within a planning consultancy environment
A strong understanding of UK planning policy and regulatory frameworks
Proven experience preparing and managing planning applications and appeals
Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
A strong track record of delivering work to tight deadlines
RTPI membership
What\’s on Offer
Highly competitive salary and benefits package
Private medical insurance
27 days annual leave plus bank holidays, with an additional day off for your birthday
Hybrid working from a central Birmingham hub
A culture of trust, autonomy, and professional empowerment
The opportunity to join a vibrant, ambitious consultancy and influence long-term business strategy
Support from experienced and approachable senior leadershipInterested? xiskglj
The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates as soon as possible. If you meet the criteria above, please contact Josh Jones at Penguin Recruitment on (phone number removed) or email (url removed)
Associate Director | Planning Director employer: Penguin Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Penguin Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director | Planning Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the planning sector, especially those who have experience in urban regeneration projects. Attend industry events or webinars to connect with potential colleagues and clients, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the consultancy's recent projects and initiatives in Birmingham and the Midlands. Being knowledgeable about their work will not only help you during interviews but also demonstrate your genuine interest in their operations and goals.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your leadership style and experiences in mentoring junior team members. Highlight specific examples where you've successfully led teams or projects, as this role requires strong leadership skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and policies in the UK planning system. Being up-to-date will not only enhance your discussions with the interviewers but also position you as a knowledgeable candidate who can contribute to the consultancy's strategic goals.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director | Planning Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in urban regeneration and large-scale sustainable urban extensions. Emphasise your leadership roles and any relevant projects you've led, showcasing your ability to drive commercial success.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the consultancy's growth plans. Discuss how your background aligns with their needs, particularly your understanding of the UK planning system and your business development experience.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Provide examples of how you've mentored junior team members and contributed to team growth. Highlight specific instances where your leadership has positively impacted project delivery or client relationships.
Research the Consultancy: Familiarise yourself with the consultancy's recent projects and values. Mention any specific initiatives or achievements in your application that resonate with you, demonstrating your genuine interest in joining their team.
How to prepare for a job interview at Penguin Recruitment
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Associate Director, you'll be expected to lead a team and drive projects. Be prepared to discuss your previous leadership experiences, how you've mentored others, and your approach to fostering a collaborative environment.
✨Demonstrate Your Knowledge of the UK Planning System
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the UK planning system, policies, and application processes. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've navigated these in past roles, particularly in urban regeneration projects.
✨Prepare for Business Development Questions
Since this role involves identifying new opportunities and supporting client relationships, think about your past successes in business development. Prepare to share strategies you've used to build client relationships and secure new projects.
✨Express Your Vision for the Future
This consultancy is looking for someone who can help shape the future of their planning team. Be ready to articulate your vision for the role and how you plan to contribute to the firm's growth and success in the Midlands and beyond.
