Associate Director
This is a remote position.
Posting Title: Associate Director Industry: Planning Consultancy Salary: Depending on experience + Bonus + Benefits Work Experience: 5+ years Location: Hybrid (fully remote working available; optional office attendance at our Leeds-based office up to a couple of days per month, depending on individual preference and project needs) ---Summary
We are seeking an accomplished and strategic Associate Director to join our dynamic planning consultancy, driving high-impact, sustainable development solutions across rural and urban landscapes. This role is central to our planning team, where you will lead complex planning projects, shape policy-informed strategies, and mentor senior planners in delivering innovative, client-focused outcomes. As an Associate Director, you will play a key role in expanding our market presence, particularly in rural planning, including site allocations, farm diversification, permitted development rights, leisure and tourism developments, and landed estate planning. With a strong foundation in private sector planning practice, you will contribute to shaping the future of sustainable land use while supporting the firm’s growth and reputation as a trusted advisor in the planning sector. This position is fully remote, with the option to work from home or visit our Leeds office up to a couple of days per month—ideal for those who value flexibility and autonomy. For those living nearby, we offer enhanced flexibility and the option to work in a collaborative office environment whenever preferred. Whether you thrive remotely or in a team setting, the choice is yours. ---Responsibilities
- Lead and manage high-value planning projects from inception to delivery, ensuring compliance with national and local planning policies.
- Provide strategic leadership in rural planning, including site allocations, farm diversification schemes, permitted development rights, and leisure/tourism development proposals.
- Advise clients on complex land use issues, including estate planning, conservation, and development viability, ensuring alignment with policy frameworks and client objectives.
- Mentor and develop Senior Planners and junior team members, fostering a culture of professional growth, innovation, and accountability.
- Contribute to business development initiatives, including proposal writing, client engagement, and identifying new market opportunities.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated planning, environmental, and design solutions.
- Represent the firm in professional forums, planning hearings, and stakeholder consultations, demonstrating thought leadership and technical expertise.
- Maintain a deep understanding of evolving planning legislation, including the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Local Plans, and emerging sustainability standards.
- Support the delivery of advisory services with a focus on long-term strategic planning, development management, and policy formulation.
Requirements
Requirements:- Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in private sector planning consultancy, with a strong track record in rural planning and land use strategy.
- Demonstrated expertise in site allocations, farm diversification, permitted development rights, leisure and tourism developments, and landed estate planning.
- In-depth knowledge of the UK planning system, including the NPPF, Local Plan preparation, and development management processes.
- Strong leadership and mentoring abilities, with experience managing teams or junior planners.
- Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage with clients, stakeholders, and planning authorities at all levels.
- Proven track record in delivering complex planning projects on time and within budget.
- Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively within a hybrid working environment.
- Degree in Town Planning, Geography, Environmental Planning, or a related field;
- MRTPI membership is advantageous.
- Commitment to continuous professional development and a passion for sustainable, community-focused development.