Regional Director - Planning

Mattinson Partnership; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A well-established national planning consultancy is seeking a Regional Director to lead their Planning team in London. This senior leadership role involves driving growth, managing a multidisciplinary team, and client development across sectors like Residential and Commercial. The ideal candidate has an RTPI-accredited degree, at least 8 years of experience, and proven leadership skills. This role offers a competitive package with flexible working arrangements.

Benefits

Private medical insurance

Discounted gym memberships

Company bonus scheme

Enhanced annual leave

Qualifications

• Minimum 8 years' professional experience, including private sector exposure.
• 3-5+ years in people management or operational leadership role.
• Strong understanding of UK planning legislation.
• Exceptional client relationship, negotiation, and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Manage and mentor the London planning team.
• Support national division strategy and business operations.
• Build relationships with clients.
• Identify growth opportunities and manage complex planning projects.
• Oversee financial performance and resource planning.

Skills

RTPI-accredited degree

Commercial awareness

Project management

Client relationship management

Leadership

Education

Chartered Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (MRTPI)

Job description

Overview

A well-established national planning consultancy is seeking a dynamic and commercially focused Regional Director to lead the Planning team based in London. This senior leadership role offers the opportunity to drive growth, manage a multidisciplinary team, and take responsibility for client development across a range of sectors including Residential, Commercial, and Estates.

The successful candidate will help shape the direction of the division, contribute to the overall company strategy, and act as a senior representative of the business within the industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Team & Office Leadership: Manage and mentor the London planning team, overseeing project delivery, performance, and staff development.
• Strategic Oversight: Support the Director of Planning with national division strategy and business operations.
• Client & Business Development
  • Build and strengthen relationships with new and existing clients.
  • Lead client-facing activity including tenders, presentations, and negotiations.
  • Identify growth opportunities across all sectors and convert them into revenue-generating projects.
• Cross-disciplinary Collaboration: Foster integration with other teams and disciplines across the company to deliver holistic client solutions.
• Project Delivery
  • Manage complex planning projects independently, including appeals and strategic planning assessments.
  • Provide expert guidance to colleagues, clients, and stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.
• Operational Responsibility
  • Oversee financial performance, resource planning, and SHEQ compliance for the office.
  • Lead contractual negotiations with clients and suppliers.

Skills & Experience Required

• RTPI-accredited degree and Chartered Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (MRTPI).
• Minimum 8 years' professional experience, including private sector exposure and leadership on large-scale schemes.
• 3-5+ years in a people management or operational leadership role, ideally within a consultancy setting.
• Proven ability to win and manage high-value projects with minimal senior oversight.
• Strong understanding of UK planning legislation and political context.
• Exceptional client relationship, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Advanced project management and report writing abilities.

What's on Offer

We believe in supporting and rewarding our people. Benefits include:

Health & Wellbeing

• Private medical insurance
• Medical cash plan
• Discounted gym memberships
• Employee assistance programme

Day-to-Day Flexibility

• Enhanced annual leave + loyalty days
• Hybrid working
• Lifestyle discounts (retail, travel, entertainment)

Recognition & Progression

• Company bonus scheme
• Defined promotion windows
• Team celebrations and events

Future Planning

• Enhanced pension contributions
• Life assurance cover

Professional Development

• Funded professional membership
• Protected CPD time
• Access to industry-leading learning resources
• Clear career progression framework

If you're an experienced planning professional with a strong network, leadership capability, and commercial drive, this is a unique opportunity to shape and grow a successful office within a collaborative and ambitious national practice.