National Planning Director: Growth, Strategy & Delivery

Penguin Recruitment Ltd; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Job summary

Penguin Recruitment is seeking a Director of Planning to join its national Planning and Environmental team, leading strategic direction across the UK and shaping major infrastructure and development projects. You'll mentor teams, drive growth, and foster an integrated, one-team approach with planning, environmental, engineering and design colleagues.

The role requires RTPI accredited degree, Chartered status, and a track record of leading high-profile consultancy projects within the UK planning

Qualifications

• Degree or postgraduate qualification in Town Planning (RTPI accredited).
• Chartered Member of the RTPI.
• Extensive consultancy experience, including leadership of high-performing teams.
• Proven success in winning and delivering major infrastructure and development projects.
• Strong knowledge of the UK planning system and consenting regimes, including DCO experience where applicable.
• Excellent commercial awareness and experience managing complex client relationships.
• An established professional network and recognised industry profile.
• Outstanding communication, leadership and stakeholder management skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction to the national Planning practice.
• Support the development and delivery of business growth plans.
• Lead, inspire and develop teams across multiple regions.
• Foster a high-performing and collaborative culture.
• Drive work-winning activities and secure major infrastructure and development projects.
• Identify emerging opportunities across sectors including energy, transport, water, housing and Net Zero.
• Build and maintain a strong external profile within the industry.
• Strengthen client relationships and market positioning.
• Act as lead director on flagship projects and key client accounts.
• Deliver high-quality planning advice across complex, multidisciplinary schemes.
• Oversee commercial performance, governance and risk management.
• Ensure technical excellence and outstanding client service.
• Work closely with planning, environmental, engineering and design teams.
• Promote integrated delivery and a one-team approach.
• Contribute to innovation and thought leadership initiatives.
• Mentor and develop planning professionals across all levels.
• Support talent development and succession planning.
• Help attract and retain the industry's best talent.
• Champion an inclusive and collaborative working environment.

Skills

Leadership

Business development

Strategic planning

Stakeholder management

Team mentorship

Education

RTPI accredited degree

RTPI Chartered member

Job description

Penguin Recruitment is seeking a Director of Planning to join its national Planning and Environmental team, leading strategic direction across the UK and shaping major infrastructure and development projects. You'll mentor teams, drive growth, and foster an integrated, one-team approach with planning, environmental, engineering and design colleagues.

The role requires RTPI accredited degree, Chartered status, and a track record of leading high-profile consultancy projects within the UK planning