Senior Planning Director: Lead Growth & Delivery

Energy Jobline CVL; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 90,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Penguin Recruitment seeks a Technical Director / Associate Director - Planning to lead the Northern Planning team within a leading UK consultancy. You will guide strategic direction, oversee complex infrastructure projects, and foster client relationships across public and private sectors.

The role offers a senior leadership path, collaborative multidisciplinary teams, and opportunities to shape planning policy and delivery across major developments.

Qualifications

• RTPI-accredited degree or postgraduate qualification in Town Planning and Chartered RTPI membership.
• Strong consultancy background with experience in leading and developing teams.
• Proven track record in delivering and winning major infrastructure and development projects.
• Excellent understanding of planning law, policy, and procedures with strong commercial awareness.
• Demonstrable experience in stakeholder engagement and relationship building.
• Strong leadership, communication, and business development skills.
• Growth-focused mindset with ability to identify and convert opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Lead, grow, and develop an established team of Town Planners across the UK.
• Deliver high-quality Town Planning consultancy services directly to clients.
• Manage commercial performance including management, governance, and resourcing.
• Lead major multidisciplinary bid submissions for significant infrastructure and development projects.
• Develop new business opportunities and strengthen existing client relationships.
• Oversee project delivery ensuring technical excellence, quality, and compliance at all stages.
• Collaborate across planning, environmental, and infrastructure teams to drive integrated solutions.
• Mentor, manage, and support the development of team members, including performance reviews.

Skills

Consultancy leadership

Infrastructure delivery

Stakeholder engagement

Planning law & policy

Business development

Team leadership

Education

RTPI-accredited degree or RTPI chartered

Job description

Penguin Recruitment seeks a Technical Director / Associate Director - Planning to lead the Northern Planning team within a leading UK consultancy. You will guide strategic direction, oversee complex infrastructure projects, and foster client relationships across public and private sectors.

The role offers a senior leadership path, collaborative multidisciplinary teams, and opportunities to shape planning policy and delivery across major developments.