Chief Executive Officer

Town & Country Planning Association (TCPA); Greater London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent charity for community planning is seeking a Chief Executive to lead efforts in creating sustainable and just communities. This role involves strategic leadership, advocacy in national debates, and engaging with various stakeholders. The ideal candidate will possess senior leadership experience, strong financial acumen, and outstanding communication skills. This is a unique opportunity to influence the future of rightful planning in the UK, aligning with values of social justice and healthy living.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a charity, membership body, or public sector organization.
• Track record of developing and executing strategy.
• Outstanding advocacy and public speaking skills.

Responsibilities

• Drive the TCPA's mission for sustainable communities.
• Provide leadership to a team and Board of Trustees.
• Represent the organization externally.

Skills

Senior leadership experience

Financial acumen

Communication skills

Collaboration

Collaborative leadership

Job description

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 http://www.berwickpartners.co.uk/95190

If you are unable to apply online, please email your application to [e-mail].

For queries or more information, contact:
Thomas Ewen, Principal, Professional Bodies, Trade Associations and Membership
[e-mail]

OR

Ruth Hernandez Turner

[e-mail]

C1EO