At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the TCPA in creating healthier, fairer communities and drive innovative planning solutions.
- Company: Join the Town & Country Planning Association, a progressive charity shaping policy since 1899.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension, flexible working, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Why this job: Be a key player in transforming planning for a sustainable future and champion social justice.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience in relevant sectors and strong advocacy skills.
- Other info: Unique opportunity to influence national debates and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
The predicted salary is between 84000 - 116000 £ per year.
Lead the next chapter of progressive planning and champion healthier, fairer communities as the Chief Executive of the Town & Country Planning Association. The Town & Country Planning Association (TCPA) is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive to drive our mission of creating healthy, sustainable, and socially just places for all. With a proud legacy dating back to 1899, the TCPA is a progressive, independent charity at the forefront of shaping policy and practice in planning, housing, and new town development. Our work blends advocacy, research, training, and collaboration - bringing together government, industry, and communities to tackle the UK's most pressing challenges, from the housing crisis to climate resilience.
As Chief Executive, you will:
- Champion healthy placemaking, social justice, and practical solutions to the challenges facing people and places.
- Provide strategic leadership to a passionate, expert team and work closely with a committed Board of Trustees.
- Strengthen and amplify the TCPA's influence as a trusted voice in national debates and strengthen relationships across government, industry, and civil society.
- Drive innovation and organisational growth, diversifying income streams, commercialising intellectual property, and forging new partnerships for a sustainable future.
- Inspire and engage members, partners, and stakeholders, representing the TCPA externally at the highest levels.
We are looking for:
- Proven senior leadership experience in a charity, membership body, public sector, or relevant organisation - ideally at Chief Executive or Director level.
- A track record of developing and delivering organisational strategy, business plans, and measurable impact.
- Strong financial acumen, with experience of managing budgets and securing funding from diverse sources.
- Outstanding communication and advocacy skills, with the ability to represent the organisation externally, including public speaking and media engagement.
- A collaborative, inclusive leadership style and a passion for social justice, healthy placemaking, and the TCPA's mission.
This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of planning at a pivotal moment for the sector. If you are a strategic thinker, an inspiring leader, and share our vision for fairer, healthier, and more sustainable places, we would love to hear from you.
How to Apply
Closing date for applications: 23:59 on 08/02/2026
Apply online at For queries or more information, contact: Thomas Ewen, Principal, Professional Bodies, Trade Associations and Membership OR Ruth Hernandez Turner.
Chief Executive Officer in City of London employer: Town & Country Planning Association (TCPA)
Contact Detail:
Town & Country Planning Association (TCPA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chief Executive Officer in City of London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the planning and charity sectors. Attend events, join relevant groups, and don’t be shy about reaching out to folks on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers or during interviews, make sure to express your enthusiasm for social justice and healthy placemaking. Share your vision and how it aligns with the TCPA’s mission – it’ll make you stand out!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tough questions! Research common interview questions for CEO roles and think about how your experience fits into the TCPA’s goals. Practise your answers so you can deliver them confidently and clearly when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about the role and the organisation. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to make a real difference!
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer in City of London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to reflect the specific skills and experiences that align with the Chief Executive role at TCPA. Highlight your leadership experience and passion for social justice, as these are key to the position.
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use quantifiable results to demonstrate how you've made an impact in previous roles. This will help us see your potential to drive innovation and organisational growth at TCPA.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We want to get a sense of who you are beyond your professional qualifications. Share your passion for healthy placemaking and social justice, and why you’re excited about this opportunity.
Follow the Application Process: Make sure to apply through our website before the deadline. Double-check that you’ve included all required documents and that everything is polished. A well-organised application shows us your attention to detail and commitment!
How to prepare for a job interview at Town & Country Planning Association (TCPA)
✨Know Your TCPA Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into the Town & Country Planning Association's mission, values, and recent initiatives. Familiarise yourself with their work on healthy placemaking and social justice. This will not only show your genuine interest but also help you align your vision with theirs.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential Chief Executive, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership approach. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, particularly in collaborative environments. Highlight your inclusive style and how it has driven positive outcomes in previous roles.
✨Prepare for Strategic Discussions
Expect questions about organisational strategy and growth. Be ready to discuss your experience in developing business plans and securing funding. Think about innovative ideas you could bring to the TCPA to diversify income streams and enhance their influence in national debates.
✨Practice Your Advocacy Skills
Since communication is key for this role, practice articulating your thoughts clearly and confidently. Prepare for potential public speaking scenarios or media engagement questions. Show that you can represent the TCPA effectively and passionately in various settings.