Associate/ AssociateDirector of Town Planning

Penguin Recruitment Ltd; London; Hybrid; GBP 50,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious consultancy seeks an experienced Associate or Associate Director in Town Planning, specializing in Energy and Water sectors. This role involves leading major projects, managing teams, and offering strategic guidance. Applicants should possess a relevant degree and strong leadership skills. Competitive salary and career growth opportunities are offered.

Benefits

Annual bonus

Flexible hybrid working

Career progression opportunities

Collaborative team environment

Qualifications

• Relevant Planning degree required.
• RTPI or equivalent membership desirable.
• Experience with DCOs, TCPA applications preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead on large-scale planning applications.
• Oversee multidisciplinary teams for project delivery.
• Provide strategic planning advice and mentorship.

Skills

Leadership

Client Engagement

Project Management

Communication

Education

Planning or Planning-related degree

Job description

Associate or Associate Director – Town Planning (Energy & Water Sectors)
Location: London

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting one of the UK’s most prestigious multi-disciplinary consultancy firms as they look to grow their Planning & Environmental team with the appointment of an Associate or Associate Director with strong experience in delivering major infrastructure projects.

This organisation is recognised nationally for its work across critical infrastructure – especially within the Energy and Water sectors – and is a leader in sustainable development, digital transformation, and innovative planning strategies. Their clients include major utilities, government agencies, and developers who rely on them for expert planning leadership on high-profile schemes.

The Role:

You will take a senior leadership position in the planning team, managing major applications and Development Consent Orders (DCOs), and leading multi-disciplinary teams across complex projects. Your focus will initially be on the Energy and Water markets, with involvement in key clients such as Anglian Water, Thames Water, Southern Water, National Grid, and Nuclear Waste Services.

Key Responsibilities:

• Act as Planning or DCO Lead on large-scale planning applications and Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects
• Lead multi-disciplinary teams, ensuring timely, high-quality project delivery
• Oversee project management, budgeting, and client engagement
• Provide strategic planning advice and mentor junior planners
• Support the preparation of bids and tenders, including framework submissions
• Play an active role in business development, supporting sector growth and new client engagement

About You:

• Hold a relevant Planning or Planning-related degree
• RTPI or equivalent professional membership is highly desirable
• Demonstrated experience delivering DCOs, TCPA applications, TWAO, and EIA processes
• Prior experience in the Water or Energy sectors is highly beneficial
• Strong leadership and team management experience
• Confident in client-facing roles, with a track record in work winning and business development
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills

Why Join?

• Be part of a leading national consultancy working on the UK’s most critical infrastructure schemes
• Work within a collaborative, high-performing team with a genuine focus on sustainability and innovation
• Enjoy a competitive salary, annual bonus, and excellent benefits
• Access to flexible, hybrid working and strong career progression opportunities
• Join an inclusive organisation committed to diversity, social impact, and professional growth

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced planner ready to take the next step in their leadership journey, supporting transformational projects across the UK.

To apply or find out more, contact Josh Jones at Penguin Recruitment on 01792 362 010 or email [e-mail] in confidence.