At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead strategic planning and development for the UK's busiest port, influencing sustainable growth.
- Company: Join the Port of London Authority, a key player in the UK economy and environment.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days leave, private medical insurance, and a generous pension scheme.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity to shape the future of the River Thames and its communities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on infrastructure projects and protect vital natural assets.
- Qualifications: Significant experience in planning and development with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 94500 - 115500 £ per year.
Department: Planning & Development
Reporting to: CEO
Grade: EXCO
Salary: Six-figure salary plus benefits
Base: Gravesend / London
Closing date: 16th August 2026
Who we are: We are the UK’s biggest port, central to the country’s economy and ambitions for growth. We connect the UK to the world, but we are much more than a conventional port. We are driven by our purpose to protect and improve the 95 mile stretch of the River Thames which is tidal – from Teddington Lock on the border of Surrey, through the heart of London, Kent, Essex and out to the North Sea.
The Opportunity: The Port of London Authority is looking for an exceptional leader to join its Executive Committee as Director of Planning & Development. This is a rare opportunity to influence the future of the UK’s busiest port and inland waterway, helping to deliver sustainable growth, support nationally significant infrastructure projects and protect one of the country’s most important natural and economic assets. Reporting to the Chief Executive Officer, you will lead the PLA’s planning, development and statutory consenting agenda, while playing a key role in shaping the organisation’s overall strategic direction.
Key responsibilities: As a member of the Executive Committee, you will:
- Lead the PLA's strategic approach to planning, development and statutory consenting.
- Influence policy and decision-making at national, regional and local levels.
- Represent the PLA on Planning issues with government departments, regulators, local authorities, developers and industry stakeholders.
- Support major infrastructure and regeneration projects across the Thames corridor.
- Provide leadership to a highly skilled professional team.
- Advise the Board and Executive Committee on planning and development matters.
What we are looking for: We're looking for a collaborative senior leader with:
- Significant experience in planning, development, infrastructure, regeneration or a related field.
- A strong track record of influencing complex stakeholder environments.
- Experience leading professional teams and delivering organisational change.
- Commercial awareness and experience supporting major investment or infrastructure projects.
- Credibility and proven experience operating at Board or Executive level.
- Degree-level qualification and relevant professional credentials.
In return, we offer a competitive benefits package:
- 30 days annual leave (plus Bank Holidays)
- Private Medical Insurance
- Generous pension - up to 14% employer contribution
- Up to 10% performance bonus based on a 3 year incentive plan
- Salary sacrifice car scheme (Tusker Cars)
The PLA are not registered with the UK Home Office and do not sponsor candidates who require a visa or work permit to work in the UK, therefore an offer of employment cannot be made unless you currently hold the rights to live and work in the UK.
Director of Planning & Development in Gravesend employer: Port of London Authority
The Port of London Authority is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Gravesend where marine professionals can thrive. With a strong focus on employee development and a comprehensive benefits package, including 28 days of annual leave, the organisation fosters a supportive culture that values teamwork and communication. Join us to be part of a vital service that plays a key role in maintaining the safety and efficiency of our waterways.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Planning & Development in Gravesend
✨Tip Number 1: Get Involved in Consulting Case Competitions
Look for case competitions hosted by universities and consulting firms. They’re a fab way to showcase your problem-solving skills and meet industry players. Plus, winning one can seriously boost your CV, which we know is key when applying for roles like Director of Planning & Development at Port of London Authority!
✨Tip Number 2: Leverage Alumni Networks
Tap into your university’s alumni network; many consultants love to help out new talent. Reach out to alumni who are working in management consulting, they might have insider knowledge about openings at firms like Port of London Authority or be willing to refer you for that Director of Planning & Development position!
✨Tip Number 3: Attend Industry Events and Conferences
Keep an eye on management consulting events, workshops, or panels. These are prime opportunities to network with top professionals and get your name out there. You might even bump into someone from Port of London Authority who’s on the lookout for their next Director of Planning & Development star!
✨Tip Number 4: Polish Your Consulting Skills Online
Engage with online platforms that offer consulting simulations or courses. Prove your chops by completing relevant projects — this not only beefs up your experience but also gives you concrete examples to chat about during interviews for that full-time Director of Planning & Development role at Port of London Authority!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Planning & Development in Gravesend
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Problem-Solving Skills:In management consulting, it's all about problem-solving—so make sure your CV highlights your analytical and critical thinking skills. Include examples from your studies or previous roles where you tackled complex issues or came up with innovative solutions. Quantify your achievements whenever possible to demonstrate your impact!
Tailor Your Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to explain why you're a perfect fit for the consulting world. Focus on your motivation for joining the industry and how your skills align with the requirements of the role at Port of London Authority. Remember to mention any relevant coursework or projects that showcase your understanding of strategic frameworks or business models!
Highlight Team Experience:Consultants often work in teams, so it's vital to showcase your collaborative skills. Include experiences where you've worked effectively with others, whether in academic group projects or internships. Discuss your role in the team and how you helped achieve common goals, demonstrating you can thrive in a consultancy environment.
Professionalise Your Online Presence:Make sure your LinkedIn and any other professional profiles are up to date, reflecting your career aspirations in management consulting. Connect with industry professionals and follow relevant groups—show you’re serious about entering this field. Applying through our website is a great way to get noticed, so showcase your personality and enthusiasm there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Port of London Authority
✨Master the Case Study Game
In management consulting, case study interviews are all the rage. Make sure to practice structuring your thoughts and analysing data on the fly. Use resources like example case studies to get comfortable with frameworks and solutions. Remember, it’s not just about getting the right answer but showcasing your thought process, so talk us through your reasoning!
✨Know Your Numbers
Be prepared for some numerical and analytical questions. Brush up on your mental math and be ready to interpret data from charts or graphs. We might throw some business scenarios at you that require a quick turnaround on numerical analysis, so practice these skills to feel confident and swift!
✨Show Your Leadership Flair
As this is a full-time role, we want to see your potential as a seasoned consultant. Be ready to discuss experiences where you've led a project or a team. Think about times you've influenced decisions or navigated challenges—this is your chance to show how you can thrive in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.
✨Be a Cultural Fit
We’re not just looking for brains; we want to see if you vibe with our company culture at Port of London Authority. Prepare to share how your values align with ours. Have a think about what makes a great team environment for you and how you can contribute to that. A good cultural fit goes a long way in management consulting!
