Bidwells is growing and we're looking for an exceptional Planning Associate or Partner to take on a newly created leadership role within our Scotland Planning Team! This provides an exciting opportunity to work on large-scale and high-impact planning projects across Scotland and will contribute towards departmental strategy and wider planning operations.
The Planning Department provides a comprehensive planning service to a range of public and private clients. It provides core skills to developers and landowners in planning and development appraisals, planning applications, appeals and land promotion within the residential, commercial, retail, energy and rural sectors. We partner with high-profile clients who prioritise ESG values and have an invested interest in shaping the future regeneration and development of the country.
Due to Bidwells’ own growth strategy, we’re looking for a business-minded leader who thrives on building relationships, expanding their network, and creating new opportunities.
At Bidwells, collaboration is at our core. This role offers the chance to work closely with experts across a range of departments including Land & Development, Energy & Renewables, Natural Capital, Rural and Forestry, contributing to multidisciplinary projects that shape the built environment. As a business, we know our people are our most important asset. Having a leader who champions an environment that’s collaborative, open, communicative, and enjoyable place to work is essential.
What you’ll be doing
* Leadership & Strategy – Shape the team’s direction, lead departmental operations, contribute to business growth, and drive operational excellence.
* Client Management – Build, manage, and grow a portfolio of key clients including developers, landowners, and private/public sector bodies.
* Business Development – Identify opportunities, expand professional networks, and drive new business across the firm.
* Project Delivery – Oversee complex planning projects, ensuring efficient delivery and high-quality outcomes.
* Collaboration – Work closely with other departments, leveraging multidisciplinary expertise and identifying cross‑selling opportunities.
* Team Leadership – Inspire, mentor, and develop a high‑performing team, fostering a culture of innovation and open communication.
* Financial Management – Drive profitability, oversee project finances, and manage fee performance and debt.
* Technical Leadership – Provide expert planning advice and promote technical excellence across the team.
* Market Presence – Enhance the firm’s profile through networking, marketing, and industry engagement.
About you
* RTPI qualified with considerable town planning experience, preferably across a range of sectors
* Specialist in planning professional issues
* Ideally experience within a consultancy or professional services environment
* Detailed knowledge of the Scottish Planning System
* Able to lead and manage small team, preferably with previous line/team management experience, whilst being an excellent team player
* Business development and relationship management skills
* Strong intellect
* Creative and innovative
* Consultative and collaborative
* Potential for personal growth
Why Bidwells?
We’re a different kind of business. Whilst we’re a major player in the property sector, Bidwells remains a privately‑owned, independent Partnership, with an inclusive, entrepreneurial culture. We give our people autonomy and take the time to listen. As a certified B Corporation (B‑Corp), we are dedicated to using our business as a force for good, driving innovation, and creating long‑term value for our clients, communities and the environment.
What’s in it for you
Competitive Salary: We recognise and reward talent with generous salary, car allowance and group bonus scheme. As a Real Living Wage employer, we’re committed to fair pay that reflects the true cost of living.
Comprehensive Benefits: Including up to 8% matched pension, 28 days holiday (+ bank holidays) as a minimum, along with your birthday off work, a wellness day, paid sabbaticals, private medical cover, medicash plan, lifestyle discounts and perks, and more.
Professional Development: Continuous learning, study support and promotion opportunities.
Innovative Culture: Be part of a forward‑thinking team at the forefront of industry trends.
Family Friendly: We offer enhanced family leave policies to support individuals close to you.
Work‑Life Balance: We value your well‑being and offer agile working to support it.
Bidwells is dedicated to fostering a truly inclusive culture of belonging, where everyone can thrive and succeed as their true and authentic selves at every level. We are committed to equal employment opportunity and positively encourage applications from all suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of race, sex, gender, gender identity or expression, disability, age, sexual orientation, transgender status, religion or belief. Flexible working requests are considered from day one.
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