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- Tasks: Lead and deliver complex planning projects while mentoring junior team members.
- Company: A forward-thinking planning consultancy with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, private medical insurance, 27 days leave, and hybrid working.
- Why this job: Join a senior leadership team and shape impactful urban development projects.
- Qualifications: Degree in Town Planning and significant UK planning consultancy experience required.
- Other info: Flexible working environment with genuine career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 42000 - 60000 £ per year.
Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading, forward-thinking planning consultancy with ambitious growth plans in their search for an Associate Planning Director / Planning Director to join their Birmingham team. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Planning professional looking to take the next step in their career and play a pivotal role in the growth and success of a well-established consultancy presence in the Midlands.
The Opportunity
Our client offers a collaborative, empowering working culture where individuals are trusted with autonomy and encouraged to shape both projects and the wider business. You will work on a diverse and high-profile portfolio of projects, including urban regeneration schemes and major mixed-use sustainable urban extensions across the UK. You will also become part of the senior leadership team, helping to identify and deliver new development opportunities while building strong relationships with national housebuilders, land promoters and landowners.
What's on Offer
- Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
- Private medical insurance
- 27 days annual leave plus bank holidays
- An additional day off for your birthday
- Hybrid working from a central Birmingham hub
- A varied workload across high-quality, strategic planning projects
- A supportive, inclusive culture with genuine career development opportunities
The Role
- Playing a key role in the growth strategy of the Birmingham office
- Leading and delivering complex planning projects from inception to consent
- Identifying new development opportunities and supporting business development
- Managing client relationships and ensuring high levels of service delivery
- Leading, mentoring and developing junior members of the team
About You
- Degree in Town Planning or a related discipline
- Significant experience within a UK planning consultancy
- Strong knowledge of UK planning policy, applications and appeals
- Proven ability to lead teams and manage projects to tight deadlines
- Excellent communication and client-facing skills
- RTPI membership
Agile Working
Our client embraces agile working, offering a flexible, blended approach to where and how work is carried out. With multiple hubs across the UK, they focus on valuing outputs and impact rather than location.
Interested? The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones.
Associate Director in Willenhall employer: Penguin Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Penguin Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director in Willenhall
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the planning industry, especially those who might know someone at the consultancy you're eyeing. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the company’s recent projects and their growth strategy. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work and how you can contribute.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in leading complex planning projects. Confidence is key, so rehearse until it feels natural.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can keep you fresh in their minds and show your enthusiasm for the role. Plus, it’s a great way to reiterate your interest in joining their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director in Willenhall
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Associate Planning Director role. Highlight your planning consultancy experience and any relevant projects you've led, 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 planning and how you can contribute to our growth strategy. Be sure to mention specific projects or achievements that demonstrate your expertise.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves leading teams and mentoring juniors, make sure to highlight your leadership experience. Share examples of how you've successfully managed projects and developed others in your previous roles.
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’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it makes the process smoother for everyone!
How to prepare for a job interview at Penguin Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of UK planning policy and recent developments in the field. Being able to discuss specific projects or policies will show that you're not just familiar with the basics, but that you're genuinely engaged with the industry.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Associate Planning Director, you'll be expected to lead teams and manage projects. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or mentored junior members. This will demonstrate your capability to take on the responsibilities of the role.
✨Build Rapport with the Interviewer
Since this role involves managing client relationships, it's crucial to show your interpersonal skills during the interview. Be friendly, approachable, and engage in a two-way conversation. Ask insightful questions about the company culture and their projects to show your interest.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect to face scenario-based questions that assess your problem-solving abilities and decision-making skills. Think of situations where you've had to navigate complex planning issues or client demands, and be ready to explain your thought process and outcomes.
