At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead town planning for major infrastructure projects and provide expert advice.
- Company: Join WSP, a top consultancy with a focus on innovative infrastructure solutions.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career growth, and a supportive community of professionals.
- Other info: Be part of a global team dedicated to positive change and sustainability.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on landmark projects that shape communities and the environment.
- 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, 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. 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 Manchester employer: WSP
WSP is an exceptional employer that fosters a culture of innovation and collaboration, allowing you to work on landmark infrastructure 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 UK, you'll be part of a market-leading team recognised for its excellence in planning consultancy, making a meaningful impact on communities and the environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Associate Director Town Planning (Infrastructure Planning) in Manchester
✨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 WSP and their projects. Understand their values and recent achievements, so you can show how your skills align with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your pitch! Be ready to explain your experience and how it relates to the role of Associate Director in Town Planning. Keep it concise but impactful, highlighting your unique contributions to past projects.
✨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 experience aligns with the role. We value diverse backgrounds and perspectives, so go for it!
We think you need these skills to ace Associate Director Town Planning (Infrastructure Planning) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Associate Director Town Planning role. Highlight your experience in managing major infrastructure projects and your understanding of the relevant planning acts. We want to see how your skills align with what we’re looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to tell us why you’re passionate about town planning and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Don’t forget to mention any specific projects or achievements that showcase your expertise.
Showcase Your Teamwork Skills:Since we work in multi-disciplinary teams, it’s important to demonstrate your ability to collaborate effectively. Share examples of how you’ve worked with others to secure consents or navigate complex negotiations. We love seeing teamwork in action!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for the best chance of getting noticed. It’s super easy, and you’ll be able to find all the details you need about the role and our company. Let’s make this happen together!
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, especially those involving DCOs or DNSs. Highlight your role in securing consents and managing stakeholder relationships, as this will demonstrate your hands-on experience and leadership skills.
✨Understand Client Needs
Research WSP's key clients and their recent projects. Be ready to discuss how you would approach understanding and meeting client expectations, particularly in terms of technical advice and project management.
✨Engage in Complex Negotiations
Think about past experiences where you've had to negotiate with statutory bodies or stakeholders. Prepare to share these stories, focusing on your strategies and outcomes, as this will showcase your ability to lead negotiations effectively.
