At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead major infrastructure projects and secure necessary consents for impactful developments.
- Company: Join WSP, a top consultancy with a focus on innovative town planning.
- Benefits: Collaborative culture, career growth, and the chance to work on landmark projects.
- Other info: Be part of a global team dedicated to making a positive impact.
- Why this job: Shape the future of infrastructure while working with industry leaders.
- Qualifications: Degree in town planning and experience in multi-disciplinary project teams.
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 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.
Technical 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 commitment to employee growth, WSP offers numerous opportunities for professional development and mentorship within a supportive community, making it an ideal place for those passionate about town planning and infrastructure. Join us in shaping a sustainable future and experience the unique advantages of being part of a globally recognised consultancy.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Technical 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 Technical Director in Town Planning. Keep it concise but impactful, highlighting your leadership and project management skills.
✨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 experience can fit into our team. Just go for it!
We think you need these skills to ace Technical Director Town Planning (Infrastructure Planning) in Manchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Technical Director role. Highlight your experience in town planning and how it aligns with WSP's focus on major infrastructure projects. We want to see how your unique skills can contribute to our team!
Showcase Your Achievements:Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Use specific examples of successful projects you've led or contributed to, especially those involving complex negotiations or multi-disciplinary teams. This will help us see the impact you've made in your previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise:When writing your application, clarity is key. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the point, making it easy for us to understand your qualifications and motivations.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application reaches us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details about the role and our company culture there, which can help you tailor your application even further!
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've navigated them in past projects.
✨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
As a Technical Director, you'll need to lead teams effectively. Share instances where you've provided technical leadership or mentored colleagues, showcasing your ability to manage multi-disciplinary teams.
✨Engage with Stakeholders
Discuss your experience in negotiating with statutory bodies and stakeholders. Prepare to give examples of how you've successfully managed these relationships to achieve project goals, as this is crucial for the role.
