At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the charge for healthier, fairer communities and innovative planning solutions.
- Company: Join the Town & Country Planning Association, a progressive charity with a rich legacy.
- Benefits: Be part of impactful change while working with a passionate team and diverse stakeholders.
- Why this job: Shape the future of planning and advocate for social justice and sustainability.
- Qualifications: Senior leadership experience in relevant sectors and a passion for community-focused initiatives.
- Other info: Unique opportunity to influence national debates and drive organisational growth.
The predicted salary is between 72000 - 108000 £ 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 [website]. If you are unable to apply online, please email your application to [email]. For queries or more information, contact: Thomas Ewen, Principal, Professional Bodies, Trade Associations and Membership or Ruth Hernandez Turner.
Chief Executive Officer in 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 London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the planning and charity sectors. Attend events, join forums, 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 for social justice and healthy placemaking in every conversation. When you meet potential employers or collaborators, share your vision and ideas. This will help you stand out as someone who truly cares about the mission of organisations like the TCPA.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the TCPA’s recent projects and initiatives. Be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals. This shows you’re not just interested in any job, but specifically in making a difference with them.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to the TCPA’s mission of creating healthier, fairer communities.
We think you need these skills to ace Chief Executive Officer in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and mission of the TCPA. Highlight your experience in leading progressive initiatives and how you can contribute to healthier, fairer communities.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: We want to see your proven senior leadership experience! Share specific examples of how you've developed and delivered organisational strategies that made a measurable impact in your previous roles.
Demonstrate Financial Acumen: Since strong financial skills are key for this role, include details about your experience managing budgets and securing diverse funding sources. This will show us you're ready to drive innovation and growth at the TCPA.
Engage with Our Mission: Express your passion for social justice and healthy placemaking in your application. We’re looking for someone who not only understands our mission but is also excited to champion it at the highest levels.
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 articulate your leadership approach. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams in the past, especially in collaborative environments. Highlight your inclusive style and how it has driven positive outcomes in previous roles.
✨Demonstrate Financial Savvy
Given the importance of financial acumen for this role, be ready to discuss your experience with budget management and securing funding. Bring specific examples of how you've diversified income streams or commercialised intellectual property in previous positions.
✨Prepare for Advocacy Scenarios
Expect questions about your advocacy skills and how you would represent the TCPA externally. Think of scenarios where you've effectively communicated complex ideas to diverse audiences. Practising your public speaking skills can also give you an edge in this area.