Associate Town Planner | Associate Director

Penguin Recruitment Ltd; Manchester; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading planning consultancy is seeking an Associate Director in Manchester or London to guide planning projects, mentor the team, and enhance client relationships. The perfect candidate will have substantial town planning experience, ideally hold an MRTPI qualification, and be committed to fostering a collaborative atmosphere. This role offers competitive pay, flexible working, and the chance to shape projects with lasting impact.

Benefits

Flexible working

Competitive salary and benefits

Opportunity to lead and grow within a close-knit team

Supportive culture focused on people, purpose and place

Qualifications

• Significant town planning experience in consultancy or local authority.
• Strong understanding of UK planning policy and development process.
• Experience managing stakeholders effectively.

Responsibilities

• Lead planning applications, appraisals, appeals, and public consultations.
• Provide clear, commercially minded advice to clients.
• Mentor junior team members and promote a collaborative team culture.

Skills

Collaboration

Communication

Stakeholder Management

Strategic Planning

Education

MRTPI or equivalent

Job description

Job Title: Associate Director – Planning
Location: Manchester or London
Salary: Competitive + Benefits
Type: Full-Time, Permanent

We’re supporting a values-led planning consultancy in their search for an experienced Associate Director to join their growing team. With offices in Manchester and London, the company delivers bespoke planning strategies across the UK, working on a broad mix of commercial, residential, leisure, and regeneration projects.

This is a great opportunity to join a people-focused, design-conscious consultancy known for its collaborative ethos and trusted client relationships.

The role
As Associate Director, you’ll take the lead on planning projects from early-stage advice through to delivery. You’ll support clients with tailored strategy, manage internal and external teams, and contribute to the ongoing growth of the business. You’ll also mentor junior staff and help to shape a supportive, inclusive working environment.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading planning applications, appraisals, appeals, and public consultations

• Providing clear, commercially minded advice to clients

• Coordinating consultant teams and managing relationships with planning authorities

• Supporting business development and identifying opportunities for growth

• Mentoring junior team members and promoting a collaborative team culture

What we’re looking for:

• Significant town planning experience in consultancy or local authority

• MRTPI (or equivalent)

• Strong understanding of UK planning policy and development process

• Excellent communication skills and experience managing stakeholders

• Confident handling complex or sensitive planning matters

• Collaborative approach and interest in placemaking and long-term project impact

What’s on offer:

• Competitive salary and benefits

• Flexible working

• Opportunity to lead and grow within a close-knit team

• A supportive culture focused on people, purpose and place

To apply or find out more, get in touch today for a confidential discussion.

Apply today on 01792 365986 and forward your CV to [e-mail]