Regional Director of Town Planning

Penguin Recruitment Ltd; York; Hybrid; GBP 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Regional Director to lead their planning team in York. This role offers the chance to shape the future of the office, drive business development, and oversee high-profile projects. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in planning, strong leadership skills, and a proven track record in managing large-scale projects. With a supportive work environment that values health, well-being, and career development, this position is perfect for someone looking to make a significant impact in a dynamic consultancy. If you are passionate about planning and leadership, this is your opportunity to shine.

Benefits

Private medical insurance

Discounted gym memberships

Enhanced annual leave

Company bonus scheme

Career development programs

Enhanced company pension

Death in service cover

Employee Assistance Program

Qualifications

• 8+ years of professional experience in planning and project management.
• Chartered membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute is required.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the planning team, ensuring successful project delivery.
• Build and strengthen client relationships for business opportunities.

Skills

Leadership

Business Development

Project Management

Communication

Negotiation

People Management

Knowledge of Legislation

Education

RTPI accredited degree

Chartered membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute

Job description

Job Title: Regional Director – York
Location: York, UK

About the Role:

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a forward-thinking multidisciplinary consultancy who are seeking a driven and experienced Regional Director to lead the planning team in our York office. As a forward-thinking multidisciplinary consultancy, they deliver exceptional planning, design, and environmental services across the UK.

As Regional Director, you will play a crucial role in shaping the direction of the York office and will be responsible for encouraging collaboration across multiple disciplines. You will also assist in the overall management of the Planning Division and take a lead role in business development, generating new opportunities, and ensuring the successful delivery of high-profile projects.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leadership & Team Management: Lead and manage the planning team, ensuring high levels of collaboration across disciplines and overseeing the successful delivery of projects.
• Business Development: Build and strengthen relationships with new and existing clients, generating business opportunities in residential, commercial, and estates sectors.
• Client Liaison: Develop strong client relationships that ensure clients trust and rely on you for continued work with minimal senior input.
• Networking: Cultivate a strong network across the industry and local planning authorities, expanding your influence and generating future opportunities.
• Strategic Planning & Growth: Drive the regional business strategy, identify profitable opportunities, and contribute to the wider business plan.
• Project Management: Oversee and manage significant projects, ensuring quality and timely delivery, with a focus on complex and large-scale projects.
• Contract Negotiation: Negotiate major contracts with clients, suppliers, and contractors, managing legal and contractual aspects of projects.
• Technical Leadership: Provide technical expertise on planning appeals, development potential assessments, policy development, and site inspections.
• Financial Management: Take responsibility for the P&L, budget, and profitability of the office and specific projects.

Required Skills & Experience:

• Professional Qualifications: An RTPI accredited degree or Master’s in a related discipline, and Chartered membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute.
• Experience: At least 8 years’ professional experience, including experience in the private sector and leading large-scale projects.
• People Management: Minimum of 3-5 years of people management experience, with a track record of mentoring and guiding junior staff.
• Leadership: Experience in driving transformational change and operating at a strategic level.
• Communication & Negotiation: Strong communication, client management, and negotiation skills, with the ability to present to senior stakeholders and large audiences.
• Project Management: Excellent project management, organisational, and report writing skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Knowledge of Legislation: Deep knowledge of planning legislation across England and Wales, including an awareness of local politics and its impact on planning.

What’s in It for You:

We offer a strong and supportive environment where our team members can thrive. Here’s what you can expect:

• Health & Well-being: Private medical insurance, BUPA medical cash plan, discounted gym memberships, and an Employee Assistance Program.
• Work-Life Balance: Hybrid working environment and enhanced annual leave entitlement.
• Continuous Reward: A company bonus scheme, loyalty leave, and regular team celebration events.
• Career Development: Professional body membership cover, CPD time, exclusive access to e-learning content, and a defined career progression framework.
• Future Security: Enhanced company pension, death in service cover, and a range of discounts on products and services (e.g., Amazon Prime, Odeon, Apple, etc.).

This role provides an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader to contribute to the growth and success of a leading multidisciplinary consultancy. If you’re passionate about planning, leadership, and delivering outstanding results, apply now!

Interested?

The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones on 01792361770 or [e-mail]