Associate Director/Technical DIrector Town Planning in Leeds)

Penguin Recruitment; Leeds; Hybrid; GBP 100,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

A planning consultancy is seeking an Associate Director / Technical Director in Leeds. This role involves leading significant infrastructure and renewable projects, managing stakeholder engagement, and representing clients in inquiries. The ideal candidate is a Chartered Town Planner with extensive experience in major planning projects and strong leadership skills. The position offers a competitive salary, hybrid work environment, and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Flexible hybrid working environment

Access to professional development programmes

Qualifications

• Chartered Town Planner or equivalent qualification required.
• Extensive experience in DCOs and EIA-led schemes is essential.
• Previous experience as an expert witness at public inquiries is necessary.

Responsibilities

• Lead large-scale infrastructure and renewable projects across the UK.
• Oversee planning submissions and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Represent clients at public inquiries and ensure best practice compliance.

Skills

Chartered Town Planner (MRTPI) or equivalent

Experience in major planning and infrastructure projects

Strategic leadership

Stakeholder management

People management and mentoring

Commercial awareness

Education

Relevant qualification in town planning

Job description

Overview

Location: Leeds | Hybrid Working Available

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a nationally renowned planning and environmental consultancy in the appointment of an Associate Director / Technical Director - Town Planning. This organisation is a recognised leader in major infrastructure and development projects, with an exceptional portfolio spanning energy, transport, commercial, and strategic housing schemes.

The Opportunity

This is a senior position that offers a rare opportunity to play a leading role in the delivery of nationally significant infrastructure projects, renewable energy schemes, and large-scale mixed-use developments. Based in Leeds, you will be part of a collaborative, multidisciplinary team with planning and environmental experts working across the UK. Your work will span the full development lifecycle, including Development Consent Orders (DCOs), major planning applications, and EIA coordination.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership & Project Delivery

• Lead on large-scale infrastructure and renewables projects across the UK.
• Coordinate and mentor planning teams, contributing to their professional development.
• Oversee high-quality planning submissions and stakeholder engagement activities.
• Take a lead role in complex EIA, DCO, and DNS projects.

• Client Management & Business Development

• Develop and maintain long-term client relationships.
• Identify new opportunities and lead on successful bid submissions.
• Work collaboratively across service lines to deliver integrated project solutions.

• Governance & Representation

• Represent clients at public inquiries, examinations, and hearings.
• Act as an expert witness when required.
• Ensure best practice in compliance, project management, and commercial viability.

Candidate Profile

• Chartered Town Planner (MRTPI) or equivalent relevant qualification.
• Extensive experience in major planning and infrastructure projects, including DCOs and EIA-led schemes.
• Proven track record in strategic leadership and stakeholder management.
• Previous experience as an expert witness at public inquiries and examinations.
• Strong people management and mentoring capabilities.
• Commercial awareness and financial acumen in managing large-scale projects.
• Established market reputation with a track record of winning and delivering sustainable projects.

What’s on Offer

• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• Flexible, hybrid working environment.
• Access to nationally significant infrastructure and renewables projects.
• Accredited professional development programmes, including leadership and executive coaching.
• A collaborative and inclusive culture that supports innovation, wellbeing, and professional growth.