At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage exciting planning projects across residential, commercial, and regeneration sectors.
- Company: A leading independent planning consultancy with a collaborative and supportive culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and performance bonuses.
- Why this job: Shape strategy, mentor others, and make a real impact in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Chartered MRTPI with strong UK town planning experience and leadership skills.
- Other info: Enjoy a fun, sociable workplace with excellent professional development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 £ per year.
Role: Associate Director – Town Planning
Location: Reading (preferred), Cambridge, or Southampton
Salary: £50,000–£70,000 (flexible, reviewed annually)
Experience: Chartered MRTPI
My client, a leading independent planning consultancy in the UK, is seeking an Associate Planning Director to join their growing team. This is a senior, high-profile role offering the opportunity to lead projects, shape strategy, and support business growth across a strong portfolio of residential, commercial, and regeneration schemes.
The consultancy has a strong focus on residential schemes but also handles commercial projects, town centre regeneration, strategic land, and planning appeals. This is a flexible, collaborative role with opportunities for mentoring, and the chance to influence the direction of the business. Alongside taking ownership of the existing workload, there’s growing involvement in strategic land, with the flexibility to shape your role by pursuing projects and sectors that interest you most.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage a portfolio of projects across residential, commercial, and regeneration sectors
- Ensure high-quality delivery on all existing workloads
- Support the leadership team in shaping business strategy and growth initiatives
- Line-manage and mentor junior planners (likely one direct report initially)
- Maintain and build strong client relationships, including advising on strategic land and growth projects
- Contribute ideas, energy, and positivity to the team culture
Note: While business development is encouraged, there are no formal BD targets, the emphasis is on delivering projects successfully and supporting growth.
Requirements:
- Chartered MRTPI with strong UK town planning experience
- Proven track record delivering major and complex projects, including planning applications and appeals
- Experience in residential-led developments, commercial schemes, town centre regeneration, and strategic land – preferred
- Confident leader and team player, with experience mentoring others
- Strong professional network and ability to develop client relationships
- Highly motivated, strategic thinker with energy and positivity
What’s on Offer:
- Competitive salary (£50,000–£70,000, with flexibility) bi-annual salary reviews
- Flexible, hybrid working – full autonomy to shape how and where you work (completely open to a full week of working remotely)
- Flexible working / car allowance (£6,100 annual)
- EOT bonus and individual performance bonus
- 28 days’ of annual leave with the option to buy up to 12 more (or sell 5)
- Supportive leadership team and collaborative culture
- Fun, sociable environment with opportunities for professional development
This is an exciting opportunity for a senior level planner looking to take ownership of projects, mentor others, and make a tangible impact in a flexible and supportive environment.
If this sounds like the right fit for you, get in touch!
📩 ORaban@propsourceconsulting.com
💰 Up to £500 for successful referrals
Associate Director employer: PropSource Consulting
Contact Detail:
PropSource Consulting Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, webinars, and local meet-ups to connect with other professionals in town planning. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your expertise! Create a portfolio that highlights your best projects and achievements in residential, commercial, and regeneration schemes. This will give potential employers a clear picture of what you bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent projects. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in strategic land and business growth initiatives. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that match the Associate Director role. Highlight your chartered MRTPI status and any relevant projects you've led, especially in residential and commercial sectors.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to showcase your passion for town planning and how you can contribute to the consultancy's growth. Mention specific projects or strategies you’re excited about.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves mentoring and leading projects, be sure to include examples of how you've successfully managed teams or guided junior planners in the past. We love seeing your leadership style!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It helps us keep track of applications and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates from us!
How to prepare for a job interview at PropSource Consulting
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you’re well-versed in your past projects, especially those related to residential, commercial, and regeneration schemes. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced and how you overcame them, as this will showcase your problem-solving skills and experience.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As an Associate Director, you'll be expected to lead and mentor others. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or mentored junior planners in the past. Highlight your leadership style and how it contributes to a positive team culture.
✨Understand the Company’s Vision
Research the consultancy’s recent projects and their strategic goals. This will help you align your answers with their vision during the interview. Showing that you understand their focus on business growth and client relationships will demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Think of insightful questions to ask at the end of the interview. Inquire about their approach to mentoring or how they envision the role evolving in the future. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the company is the right fit for you.