Job Description
Associate Director / Technical Director - Town PlanningLocation: Manchester (hybrid working available)Type: Permanent | Full-timeSalary: Competitive + car allowance + bonus + excellent benefits
A leading global consultancy is seeking an experienced Associate Director or Technical Director to lead and grow its Town Planning capability in Manchester. This is a senior-level opportunity within one of the UK's most respected planning and environmental teams, delivering complex, high-impact infrastructure and development projects across multiple sectors.
With a strong pipeline of nationally significant work in transport, energy, water, and residential development, this is a chance to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of sustainable infrastructure in the North of England.
The Opportunity
* Lead and grow a team of town planning consultants based in Manchester and across the North.
* Deliver expert planning advice on major development and infrastructure schemes.
* Manage multi-disciplinary bids and complex project delivery.
* Build and maintain client relationships with public and private sector stakeholders.
* Contribute to national thought leadership around Net Zero, ESG, Biodiversity Net Gain and digital transformation.
* Drive business development and identify new market opportunities.
About You
* Chartered Member of the RTPI, with an RTPI-accredited degree in Town and Country Planning.
* Proven leadership experience within a consultancy or multi-disciplinary environment.
* Strong understanding of UK planning law and commercial project delivery.
* Experience managing large-scale planning applications or infrastructure projects.
* Excellent stakeholder engagement, communication and team-building skills.
* A collaborative mindset and motivation to develop new services and client relationships.
What's on Offer
* A leadership role with a top-tier consultancy delivering nationally significant projects.
* The autonomy to grow and shape the Manchester-based planning team.
* High-profile work in energy (including offshore wind and hydrogen), rail, water, roads and housing.
* A strong, supportive culture of inclusion, innovation, and collaboration.
* Hybrid working and an excellent package including bonus, car allowance, and extensive benefits.
To apply or find out more, please contact Sofia at Penguin Recruitment on or email