Chief Executive Officer

Town & Country Planning Association (TCPA); City Of London; Hybrid; GBP 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading charity in urban planning is seeking a Chief Executive Officer to drive its mission of creating sustainable, healthy communities. This pivotal role requires proven leadership experience in a relevant organization and an ability to manage budgets and secure funding. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with outstanding communication skills, eager to advocate for social justice and healthy placemaking. This is an opportunity to influence the sector at a crucial time for planning.

Qualifications

• Proven senior leadership experience in a relevant organisation.
• A track record of developing and delivering organisational strategy.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience in managing budgets.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership to the team and Board of Trustees.
• Strengthen the TCPA's influence in national debates.
• Drive innovation and organisational growth.

Skills

Senior leadership experience

Organisational strategy development

Budget management

Communication and advocacy skills

Collaborative leadership style

Job description

Role: Chief Executive Officer
Company: Town & Country Planning Association (TCPA)
Location: Central London (with flexible working)
Salary: Circa £100,000 + Pension
Contract: Full Time

Lead the next chapter of progressive planning and champion healthier, fairer communities as the Chief Executive of the Town & Country Planning Association.

The Town & Country Planning Association (TCPA) is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive to drive our mission of creating healthy, sustainable, and socially just places for all.

With a proud legacy dating back to 1899, the TCPA is a progressive, independent charity at the forefront of shaping policy and practice in planning, housing, and new town development. Our work blends advocacy , research, training, and collaboration-bringing together government, industry, and communities to tackle the UK's most pressing challenges, from the housing crisis to climate resilience.

As Chief Executive, you will:

Champion healthy placemaking, social justice, and practical solutions to the challenges facing people and places.

• Provide strategic leadership to a passionate, expert team and work closely with a committed Board of Trustees.
• Strengthen and amplify the TCPA's influence as a trusted voice in national debates and strengthening relationships across government, industry, and civil society.
• Drive innovation and organisational growth, diversifying income streams, commercialising intellectual property, and forging new partnerships for a sustainable future.
• Inspire and engage members, partners, and stakeholders, representing the TCPA externally at the highest levels.

We are looking for:

• Proven senior leadership experience in a charity, membership body, public sector, or relevant organisation-ideally at Chief Executive or Director level.
• A track record of developing and delivering organisational strategy, business plans, and measurable impact.
• Strong financial acumen, with experience of managing budgets and securing funding from diverse sources.
• Outstanding communication and advocacy skills, with the ability to represent the organisation externally, including public speaking and media engagement.
• A collaborative, inclusive leadership style and a passion for social justice, healthy placemaking, and the TCPA's mission.

This is a unique opportunity to shape the future of planning at a pivotal moment for the sector. If you are a strategic thinker, an inspiring leader, and share our vision for fairer, healthier, and more sustainable places, we would love to hear from you.

How to Apply

Closing date for applications: 23:59 on 08/02/2026

Apply online at

For queries or more information, contact:

Thomas Ewen, Principal, Professional Bodies, Trade Associations and Membership

OR

Ruth Hernandez Turner