Lead Urban Planner & Architect

Placements24; East London; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Medical scheme

Pension fund

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Lead Urban Planner & Architect for East London, Eastern Cape. You will bridge strategic urban planning with architectural design, leading multidisciplinary teams to shape sustainable urban development.

You will oversee master plans, policy alignment, and stakeholder engagement, mentoring professionals while coordinating with authorities and communities to deliver impactful urban projects.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Urban Planning, Urban Design, or Architecture.
• 10+ years of progressive experience with leadership responsibilities.
• Professional registration with SACPLAN or SACAP.
• Experience leading complex urban development and master planning.
• Strong knowledge of South African planning legislation and policies.
• Proficiency in GIS and CAD software and architectural tools.
• Excellent leadership and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Experience with diverse communities and government agencies.

Responsibilities

• Lead development and implementation of urban planning strategies and master plans.
• Integrate architectural design principles into urban planning frameworks.
• Manage complex projects from concept to implementation with stakeholders.
• Oversee land use, spatial planning, and development control within areas.
• Conduct site analyses, feasibility studies, and impact assessments.
• Facilitate community engagement and stakeholder consultations.
• Ensure compliance with planning policies and building regulations.
• Mentor a team of urban planners, architects, and designers.
• Collaborate with government authorities, developers, and communities.

Skills

Leadership

GIS

CAD

Stakeholder engagement

Project management

Analytical thinking

Education

Master's degree in Urban Planning, Urban Design, or Architecture

Tools

GIS

CAD

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading consultancy firm specializing in urban development and architectural integration, is seeking a dynamic Lead Urban Planner & Architect for their operations in East London, Eastern Cape . This senior role requires a visionary individual adept at bridging the gap between strategic urban planning and architectural design. You will be responsible for shaping the future development of urban areas, leading multidisciplinary teams, and ensuring that projects align with sustainable urban development goals and community needs. The ideal candidate possesses a strong understanding of urban design principles, planning legislation, and architectural best practices. This is a key leadership position with significant impact on the built environment of East London and its surrounding regions.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the development and implementation of comprehensive urban planning strategies and master plans.
• Integrate architectural design principles into urban planning frameworks to ensure cohesive and aesthetically pleasing developments.
• Manage complex urban development projects from concept to implementation, coordinating with various stakeholders.
• Oversee spatial planning processes, land use management, and development control within project areas.
• Conduct site analyses, feasibility studies, and impact assessments for proposed developments.
• Facilitate community engagement and stakeholder consultations to gather input and build consensus.
• Ensure projects comply with national, provincial, and local planning policies and building regulations in Eastern Cape .
• Mentor and guide a team of urban planners, architects, and designers.
• Collaborate with government authorities, developers, and community organizations.
• Contribute to policy development and best practices in sustainable urban planning and architecture.

Requirements

• Master's degree in Urban Planning, Urban Design, or Architecture with a specialization in urban studies.
• A minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in urban planning, urban design, and/or architectural practice, with significant leadership responsibilities.
• Professional registration with a relevant body (e.g., SACPLAN, SACAP).
• Demonstrated experience in leading complex urban development projects and master planning processes.
• Strong understanding of planning legislation, development frameworks, and spatial development initiatives in South Africa .
• Proficiency in urban planning software (GIS, CAD) and architectural design tools.
• Excellent leadership, project management, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Proven ability to integrate architectural design considerations into strategic urban planning.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Experience working with diverse communities and government agencies is essential.

Benefits

Our client offers a highly competitive executive salary package and a stimulating work environment. The hybrid work arrangement provides a valuable blend of autonomy and collaborative engagement. Benefits include a comprehensive medical scheme, pension fund contributions, and ample professional development opportunities. You will lead impactful projects that shape the future urban fabric of East London, Eastern Cape . This role presents a unique opportunity to influence urban development at a strategic level, working with a respected firm committed to sustainable and inclusive growth. The company encourages innovation and provides a platform for leadership in the urban development sector.