Job Description
Technical Director / Associate Director - Town Planning (North of England)
Location: Flexible - offices in Manchester, Leeds, Sheffield or surrounding areas
Penguin Recruitment is delighted to support a leading multi-disciplinary consultancy in their search for a senior-level Planning professional. Are you ready to lead and grow a dynamic planning team working on some of the UK's most high-profile infrastructure and development projects? Our client is a globally recognized consultancy known for innovation and transformative projects across energy, transport, water, housing, and regeneration sectors.
You will join one of the UK's top-tier planning consultancies—a team influencing sustainable development, Net Zero, ESG, and Biodiversity Net Gain. They seek a Technical Director or Associate Director to strengthen their Planning and Environmental team in the North of England and lead regional growth.
About the Role:
* Growing and mentoring a team of town planners across the region.
* Leading high-value planning commissions and directing multidisciplinary bids for major infrastructure and development projects.
* Managing the commercial and operational aspects of projects.
* Driving collaboration across teams and contributing to business development efforts.
* Providing expert planning guidance to clients including government, utilities, developers, and infrastructure providers.
* Supporting career progression and technical development of junior team members.
Key Projects Include:
* National infrastructure schemes such as HS2, Transpennine Route Upgrade, and major Highways programs.
* Renewable energy and low carbon schemes including offshore wind, hydrogen, and nuclear.
* Strategic land and housing projects in partnership with Homes England and local authorities.
* Planning advisory work for central government and regional growth partnerships.
What We're Looking For:
* RTPI Chartered Planner with a degree or postgrad qualification in Town Planning.
* Proven experience in consultancy or multidisciplinary environments.
* Strong track record in leading complex infrastructure or development projects.
* Excellent client-facing, commercial, and team leadership skills.
* Ability to lead business development and build strategic relationships.
* A collaborative, forward-thinking approach with a passion for innovation and sustainability.
Why Join?
You will be part of a business that offers more than just a job—this is a platform for influence, innovation, and leadership in planning.
With industry-leading employee networks, ED&I commitments, and flexible working arrangements, this is a place where you can thrive professionally and personally. If your background is in strategic planning, infrastructure delivery, or client-side advisory—and you're looking to shape the future of planning in a high-impact role—we want to hear from you.
Interested? Apply today or contact Josh at Penguin Recruitment for a confidential conversation or (phone number removed).
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