At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead major infrastructure projects and secure necessary consents for impactful developments.
- Company: Join WSP, a top consultancy known for innovative planning solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a supportive team environment.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse team making a positive impact globally.
- Why this job: Shape the future with landmark projects and collaborate with industry experts.
- Qualifications: Degree in town planning and experience in project management.
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, transportation and aviation sectors. We work at all stages of the consenting process from early feasibility, application preparation and delivery of consents through construction and on a variety of projects across sectors.
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 consenting inputs on major projects (DCOs, DNSs, TWAOs etc).
- Providing strong technical leadership and advice to clients and managing their consenting requirements.
- 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.
- Leading on complex negotiations with statutory bodies and stakeholders on behalf of clients.
- Acting as Planning Expert Witness at DCO examinations or other hearings or inquiries.
- Supporting and pursuing new work winning opportunities in line with WSP's Growth Strategy.
- Strong understanding of project finances and demonstrable project management experience within a consultancy environment.
- Line management / mentoring colleagues by supporting them in their work 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.
Infrastructure Planning Director - Major Projects & Consenting in Leeds employer: WSP
WSP is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, allowing you to work on landmark projects while connecting with industry leaders. With a strong commitment to employee growth, WSP offers numerous opportunities for professional development and mentorship within a supportive community. Located in the heart of the UK, you will be part of a dynamic team that values diverse perspectives and is dedicated to making a positive impact on infrastructure and the environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Infrastructure Planning Director - Major Projects & Consenting in Leeds
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with professionals on LinkedIn. 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 the company and its projects. Understand their values and recent achievements, especially in infrastructure planning. This will help you tailor your answers and show you're genuinely interested in joining their team.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain how your experience aligns with the role of Infrastructure Planning Director. Highlight your successes in managing major projects and your ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't hesitate to apply through our website! Even if you don't meet every single requirement, we want to see how your unique skills can contribute to our team. Just go for it!
We think you need these skills to ace Infrastructure Planning Director - Major Projects & Consenting in Leeds
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Infrastructure Planning Director role. Highlight your experience with major projects and how it aligns with WSP's focus on diverse sectors like energy and transportation.
Showcase Your Expertise:Don’t hold back on showcasing your technical leadership skills and project management experience. We want to see how you've successfully navigated complex negotiations and secured consents in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where possible to make it easy for us to see your key achievements and qualifications at a glance.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity with WSP!
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP
✨Know Your Legislation
Familiarise yourself with the Town and Country Planning Act, 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 projects you've worked on, especially those involving complex negotiations or multi-disciplinary teams. Highlight your role in securing consents and approvals, as this will demonstrate your capability to lead in a consultancy environment.
✨Engage with Their Values
WSP values curiosity and diverse perspectives. During the interview, express your enthusiasm for innovative ideas and community engagement. Share how you’ve embraced these values in your previous roles to show you’re a good cultural fit.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about WSP's current projects and future growth strategies. This shows your genuine interest in the company and helps you understand how you can contribute to their success in the Infrastructure Planning Team.