Chief Executive Officer

The Royal Town Planning Institute; London; On-site; GBP 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading professional body in planning based in London is looking for a Chief Executive Officer to lead its ambitious strategic plan, Empower 2030. The ideal candidate will possess senior leadership experience and a strong understanding of planning policy and public affairs. This role encompasses driving operational excellence, advocating for the profession, and shaping overall strategy. A commitment to diversity and inclusion is essential. Applications are open until 12th October 2025.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a senior leadership role within a complex organisation.
• Strong strategic thinking and the ability to inspire and influence at the highest levels.
• Deep understanding of planning and the built environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the delivery of Empower 2030, working closely with the Board of Trustees.
• Advocate for the profession across national and devolved governments.
• Drive operational excellence and enhance member engagement.
• Shape commercial strategy and identify new income-generating opportunities.
• Oversee a senior team of five directors and lead staff to deliver positive impact.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Leadership

Public policy understanding

Commercial acumen

Equity, diversity and inclusion

Job description

Role

Chief Executive Officer

Company: The Royal Town Planning Institute

Location: London

Lead the Future of Planning

The Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) is seeking an exceptional Chief Executive to lead one of the UK’s most respected professional bodies at a pivotal moment in its evolution.

This appointment comes at the launch of Empower 2030, the RTPI’s bold new strategic plan. Developed by the Board of Trustees, Empower 2030 sets out an ambitious vision to position the RTPI as the world’s leading professional planning body - championing healthy, inclusive, economically and environmentally sustainable places. We are now looking for a Chief Executive with the foresight, credibility and drive to turn this vision into reality.

With over 27,000 members across the UK and internationally, the RTPI is a trusted voice in planning policy, a leader in professional standards, and a hub for innovation in the built and natural environment. The organisation is well-positioned for growth, with a strong external profile, committed staff, and a robust financial foundation.

About the RTPI

The RTPI is the UK’s chartered professional body for planners. As a registered charity governed by a member-led Board, we set the benchmark for ethical leadership and thought leadership in planning. Our mission is to advance the science and art of planning for the long-term wellbeing of current and future generations.

We work across government, industry, academia and communities to promote planning as a force for positive change.

The Role

As Chief Executive, you will:

• Lead the delivery of Empower 2030, working closely with the Board of Trustees and Presidential Team.
• Champion the value of planning and advocate for the profession across national and devolved governments.
• Drive operational excellence, modernise systems, and enhance member engagement.
• Shape commercial strategy, identifying new income-generating opportunities and strengthening partnerships.
• Represent the RTPI externally, including in the media, and act as a trusted voice on planning reform and policy.
• You will oversee a senior team of five directors and lead a diverse, ambitious staff committed to delivering positive impact.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking a dynamic, credible and collaborative leader with:

• Proven experience in a senior leadership role within a complex organisation.
• Strong strategic thinking and the ability to inspire and influence at the highest levels.
• A deep understanding of planning, public policy and the built environment.
• Commercial acumen and a track record of delivering organisational growth.
• A commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion.
• Experience in a membership body or charity are desirable.

How to Apply

For more information on the opportunity of Chief Executive Officer for the RTPI, including access to the full candidate brief, click on the “Apply for this Role” button. You will be redirected to the website of our selected search partner, Berwick Partners - www.berwickpartners.co.uk/94452.

For an informal conversation about the role please contact Tom Ewen on [e-mail]

To apply please submit an up-to-date copy of your CV along with a covering statement which highlights your motivations towards this opportunity and capabilities in a position of this kind. To apply, again, please simply click on the “Apply for this Role” button on the relevant Berwick Partners job page.

The close date for your application is set for Sunday 12th October 2025

If you have difficulties applying online, please contact the Berwick Partners recruitment team on [e-mail]