Job Title:
Director – Planning & Property Public Affairs & Communications
Location:
Working flexibly – across London and the South
Reporting to:
Board Director
Salary:
£70,000 - £75,000 with potential for slightly more for an exceptional candidate
Purpose of the Role
This is a senior client-facing role in a growing public affairs and communications consultancy specialising in planning, property and the built environment. The Director will lead client accounts, advise on planning consultations and political engagement, and play a key role in developing the agency’s profile and business.
Unlike many agencies, this organisation does not rely on solely on junior staff to manage the account work. Client-facing colleagues are expected to manage accounts hands-on, building trusted relationships and ensuring consistently high standards of delivery.
The Director will also contribute to large-scale projects that shape communities for the future. The agency is growing fast, and this role offers the opportunity to be part of a high-performing organisation where client needs and social impact are taken seriously.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead on client accounts, providing senior counsel on planning consultation, local government engagement, and communications strategies.
* Manage relationships with clients, stakeholders, media and local communities with a particular focus across the South.
* Communicate clearly and liaise effectively with local communities as part of consultation and engagement activity.
* Deliver effective campaigns that secure planning outcomes, reassure communities and enhance client reputation.
* Oversee research, political monitoring and stakeholder mapping, ensuring insights inform strategy and delivery.
* Line manage and mentor colleagues, supporting their professional development.
* Assist with business development, including proposals and pitches.
* Represent the consultancy at external events, stakeholder meetings and industry forums.
* Facilitate stakeholder or community workshops where appropriate.
* Work closely with colleagues across the agency to ensure high standards of delivery and collaborative working.
* Opportunity to contribute to direction and strategic decisions for the company.
Skills & Experience
* Strong track record in public affairs, communications or stakeholder engagement, ideally with a focus on planning and property.
* Previous experience at agency or in-house level; local government background essential.
* In-depth understanding of planning and political landscape, particularly at local authority level.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, able to engage stakeholders at all levels.
* Proven ability to communicate clearly and engage effectively with local communities.
* Demonstrable experience of account management and successful campaign delivery.
* Commercial awareness with experience contributing to business development, client acquisition and relationship management.
* Strong strategic thinking and analytical skills, with the ability to anticipate political, planning or community risks and advise clients proactively.
* Experience in facilitating community consultation or stakeholder workshops.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to translate complex policy into clear messaging.
* Ability to lead, inspire and mentor colleagues.
* Strong organisational skills and ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
Essential Experience
* Established network of contacts across planning, property, or local government.
* Experience of working on projects in the South of England
* Background in community consultation or public engagement linked to planning or property projects.