At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead town planning for major infrastructure projects and provide expert advice.
- Company: Join WSP, an award-winning consultancy with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and the chance to make a real impact.
- Other info: Be part of a global team dedicated to positive community impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of infrastructure while working with top professionals in the field.
- Qualifications: Degree in town planning and experience in securing consents for major projects.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
What if you could do the kind of work the world needs? At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.
WSP is an award-winning consultancy that employs the largest number of chartered town planners across the UK, operating within both the infrastructure and property markets. In December 2025, WSP won the RTPI's Planning Consultancy of the Year with judges commending the team for their excellence in uniting diverse disciplines to achieve outstanding results, praising the team's strong community engagement. It has never been a more exciting time to join WSP's market-leading Infrastructure Planning Team.
Our success is built on employing highly skilled consenting specialists that have experience in serving a diverse portfolio of clients in the energy, renewables, nuclear, net zero, water, rail and transportation and aviation sectors. We work at all stages of the consenting process from early feasibility, application preparation and delivery of consents through construction on a variety of projects across sectors. With notable contract and framework awards from National Grid as part of the Great Grid Partnership as well as awards from many other clients, we have a great foundation for growth in 2026.
Our key clients include National Grid as part of the Great Grid Partnership, National Gas as part of Project Union, Nuclear Waste Services, EET Fuels, Eni UK, SSE, Scottish Power Renewables, Severn Trent Water, Southern Water, United Utilities, Yorkshire Water, and many more.
To continue to sustainably grow as a business, we are looking for an experienced Senior Consultant to join our team to support town planning and consenting inputs on major and nationally significant infrastructure projects. The successful candidates will have demonstrable experience of working within multi-disciplinary teams to secure consent and approvals for major or nationally significant infrastructure projects via the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, Planning Act 2008 and Transport and Works Act Order. We are also interested to hear from people that have experience in securing consents for major projects by means of the Planning (Wales) Act 2015, Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act, or the Electricity Act.
What we will be looking for you to demonstrate:
- Leading the town planning or consenting inputs on major infrastructure projects (DCOs, DNSs, TWAOs etc).
- Providing strong technical leadership and advice to clients, managing their consenting requirements demonstrating awareness of client's expectations and needs.
- Co-ordinating the preparation and submission of consent applications which may include applications under the Town and Country Planning Acts, the Planning Act 2008 or other regimes.
- Acting as Project Director for projects led and managed by the Infrastructure Planning business.
- Acting as Planning Expert Witness at DCO examinations or other hearings or inquiries.
- Leading on complex negotiations with statutory bodies and stakeholders on behalf of clients.
- Strong understanding of project finances and demonstrable project management experience, ideally within a consultancy environment.
- Line management / mentoring colleagues by supporting them in their work and project delivery roles.
- Degree level qualification in town planning (or equivalent).
- Member of the RTPI.
Don't quite meet all the criteria? Apply, and we can see how your experience aligns to this role and other opportunities within the team. Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world. With us, you can. Apply today.
Associate Director Town Planning (Infrastructure Planning) in Bristol employer: WSP
WSP is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, allowing employees to engage in meaningful projects that shape the future of infrastructure. With a strong commitment to professional development, WSP offers numerous growth opportunities and the chance to work alongside industry leaders in a supportive environment. Located at the heart of the UK's planning landscape, WSP provides a unique platform for making a tangible impact on communities while enjoying a diverse and inclusive workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director Town Planning (Infrastructure Planning) in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with industry professionals on LinkedIn or at local events. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching WSP and their projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; demonstrate your passion for infrastructure planning and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Associate Director Town Planning. Highlight your skills in managing multi-disciplinary teams and securing consents for major projects.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to 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 joining our team at WSP.
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director Town Planning (Infrastructure Planning) in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Associate Director Town Planning role. Highlight your relevant experience in securing consents for major infrastructure projects and showcase how your skills align with what we’re looking for.
Showcase Your Leadership Skills:We want to see your ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams and manage client expectations. Use specific examples from your past experiences to demonstrate your technical leadership and project management skills.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, keep it clear and to the point. Avoid jargon and ensure that your key achievements stand out. We appreciate straightforward communication that gets right to the heart of your qualifications.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity within our Infrastructure Planning Team.
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, Planning Act 2008, and other relevant legislation. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with these laws and how you can navigate them effectively in your role.
✨Showcase Your Project Experience
Prepare specific examples of major infrastructure projects you've worked on. Highlight your role in securing consents and approvals, and be ready to explain the challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
WSP values strong technical leadership. Be ready to discuss instances where you've led multi-disciplinary teams or acted as a project director. Emphasise your ability to manage client expectations and coordinate complex negotiations.
✨Engage with Their Values
Research WSP's culture and values, especially their commitment to community engagement and diverse perspectives. During the interview, express how your personal values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission.
