At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and grow a dynamic planning team while managing major projects.
- Company: Employee-owned consultancy known for tailored advice in the development sector.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, hybrid working, private healthcare, and generous leave.
- Why this job: Join a supportive leadership team and make a real impact in urban planning.
- Qualifications: MRTPI qualified with experience in planning and business development.
- Other info: Opportunities for professional growth and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 48000 - 72000 £ per year.
Penguin Recruitment is working on behalf of a well-established, employee-owned multidisciplinary planning and design consultancy to appoint an experienced Planning Director for its centrally located Liverpool office. This is a senior leadership opportunity to take ownership of a growing regional planning team within a nationally active consultancy known for delivering tailored advice across the development sector.
The successful candidate will lead and further develop the Liverpool Planning Office, building on an existing and well-regarded client portfolio while helping to grow the wider business through cross-selling services across a strong multidisciplinary offer, including:
- Planning Research & Analysis
- Masterplanning & Urban Design
- Architecture
- Transport & Infrastructure
- Sustainability
- Engineering
- Environmental Services
The Liverpool office serves projects across the North West and Scotland and works closely with in-house design and masterplanning teams, allowing for genuinely collaborative project delivery. You will join a close and supportive senior leadership team, with regular Director-level engagement, 1:1s with the Managing Director, and a structured review process.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and grow the Liverpool Planning team
- Provide clear leadership, mentoring and strategic direction
- Manage and oversee major planning projects including applications, appeals, Local Plans, examinations and inquiries
- Develop and strengthen existing client relationships while generating new business opportunities
- Identify and secure growth in targeted development sectors
- Take responsibility for office financial performance and resourcing
- Contribute to company-wide business strategy and senior management
- Represent the business at networking and industry events
- Assemble and lead project teams across the national office network
About You
- MRTPI qualified with a postgraduate degree in Planning
- Ideally professional experience, gained within private consultancy, public sector or client-side roles
- Proven experience managing professional planning teams
- Strong track record in business development and client leadership
- Established professional network with clear ideas for future growth
- Confident leading complex development management and policy work
- Commercially aware, collaborative and people-focused
What’s on Offer
- Senior leadership role within an employee-owned organisation
- Competitive, negotiable salary
- Hybrid working with core office collaboration days
- Private healthcare, life insurance and enhanced pension options
- Generous annual leave plus gifted time off over Christmas
- Enhanced maternity scheme
- Cycle to work scheme
- Paid professional subscriptions
- Strong commitment to wellbeing, diversity and inclusion
- Active CPD and training programme, with Directors contributing to thought leadership and industry insight
Interested? The hiring manager is looking to meet suitable candidates ASAP.
Town Planning Director in Liverpool) employer: Penguin Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Penguin Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Town Planning Director in Liverpool)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events and connect with professionals in town planning. We can’t stress enough how important it is to build relationships; you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your best projects and achievements in planning. When you meet potential employers, having tangible evidence of your skills can really set you apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t be shy about reaching out! If you see a company you’re keen on, drop them a message or connect on LinkedIn. Expressing your interest can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got a range of roles that could be perfect for you. Plus, applying directly shows your enthusiasm and commitment to joining our team in Liverpool.
We think you need these skills to ace Town Planning Director in Liverpool)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Town Planning Director role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant projects you've managed, as this will show us you're the right fit for our team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you're passionate about town planning and how your background makes you the ideal candidate. Don't forget to mention your vision for growing the Liverpool Planning team!
Showcase Your Network: Since building client relationships is key, let us know about your professional network in the planning sector. Mention any connections or collaborations that could benefit our consultancy and demonstrate your business development skills.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from our team during the hiring process.
How to prepare for a job interview at Penguin Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key responsibilities of the Town Planning Director role. Brush up on your knowledge of planning applications, Local Plans, and the specific challenges facing the North West and Scotland. This will show that you’re not just interested in the position but also understand the nuances of the industry.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a senior leadership role, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to lead and mentor a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past, highlighting your strategic direction and how you’ve fostered collaboration. This will help the interviewers envision you in a leadership position.
✨Network Like a Pro
Since the role involves representing the business at networking events, be ready to discuss your established professional network. Share insights on how you’ve leveraged these connections for business development and client leadership. This shows you’re proactive and can bring in new opportunities.
✨Align with Company Values
Research the consultancy’s values and commitment to wellbeing, diversity, and inclusion. Be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their culture. This will demonstrate that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for the company as a whole.