At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead exciting planning projects and shape business strategy in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Leading independent planning consultancy with a focus on growth and mentorship.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working, generous leave, and performance bonuses.
- Why this job: Make a real impact while mentoring others and enjoying a fun, supportive culture.
- Qualifications: Chartered MRTPI with strong UK town planning experience and leadership skills.
- Other info: Flexible hybrid working and opportunities for professional development.
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 refer you to their company.
✨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’s recent projects and challenges. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their needs, especially in strategic land and business growth initiatives.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! We’re always looking for talented individuals like you to join our team. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
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 our team. Mention specific projects or strategies you’re excited about and how they align with our consultancy's goals.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: Since this role involves mentoring and leading projects, be sure to include examples of your leadership experience. Talk about how you've successfully managed teams or influenced project outcomes in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It helps us keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss out on any important updates!
How to prepare for a job interview at PropSource Consulting
✨Know Your Projects Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the projects you’ve led or been involved with. Be ready to discuss specific challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and the impact of your work. This will show your depth of experience and strategic thinking.
✨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. Highlight your approach to fostering a positive team culture and how you’ve contributed to business growth.
✨Build Rapport with Interviewers
Establishing a connection with your interviewers can set you apart. Be personable and engage in conversation about their projects or the consultancy’s vision. This shows you’re not just interested in the role, but also in the company’s culture and goals.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
Have thoughtful questions ready that reflect your interest in the role and the company. Ask about their current projects, future growth plans, or how they support professional development. This demonstrates your enthusiasm and strategic mindset.