Technical Director (Infrastructure Planning)

WSP in the UK & Ireland; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading infrastructure consultancy in Birmingham is seeking an experienced Senior Consultant to support town planning and consenting inputs on significant projects. The candidate will lead consent applications, manage technical requirements, and act as a Planning Expert Witness. A degree in town planning and RTPI membership are essential. Experience in project management and client negotiations is required. This role offers a chance to work on major infrastructure initiatives and mentor team members.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience leading consenting inputs on major infrastructure projects.
• Strong understanding of the Town and Country Planning Act 1990 and associated legislation.
• Proven ability to manage complex stakeholder negotiations.

Responsibilities

• Lead consenting inputs on major infrastructure projects.
• Provide technical leadership and advice to clients.
• Coordinate the submission of consent applications.

Skills

Project management

Technical leadership

Negotiation

Client management

Education

Degree level qualification in town planning (or equivalent)

Member of the RTPI

Job description

Overview

We are looking for an experienced Senior Consultant to support town planning and consenting inputs on major and nationally significant infrastructure projects. The successful candidate will have demonstrable experience working within multidisciplinary teams to secure consent and approvals for major or nationally significant infrastructure projects via the Town and Country Planning Act 1990, Planning Act 2008, Transport and Works Act Order and, where applicable, the Planning (Wales) Act 2015, Town and Country Planning (Scotland) Act, or the Electricity Act.

Key Responsibilities & Qualifications

The role includes:

• Leading consenting inputs on major projects (DCOs, DNSs, TWAOs, etc.).
• Providing strong technical leadership and advice to clients and managing their consenting requirements.
• Co‑ordinating the preparation and submission of consent applications under relevant planning acts.
• Acting as Project Director for projects led and managed by the Infrastructure Planning business.
• Leading complex negotiations with statutory bodies and stakeholders on behalf of clients.
• Acting as Planning Expert Witness at DCO examinations or other hearings or inquiries.
• Supporting and pursuing new work‑winning opportunities in line with WSP’s Growth Strategy.
• Demonstrable project management experience within a consultancy environment and a strong understanding of project finances.
• Line management and mentoring colleagues in their work and project delivery roles.
• Degree level qualification in town planning (or equivalent).
• Member of the RTPI.