Job Title: Associate Director – Transport (Development Planning)
Location: London
Reports To: Director of Transport / Planning
Salary: Competitive + Benefits
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced and commercially aware Associate Director to lead and grow our Transport Development Planning offer. This role focuses on delivering high-quality transport planning advice to support development projects across a range of sectors, including residential, commercial, mixed-use, and infrastructure schemes.
You will play a key role in project delivery, client relationship management, and business development, while providing strategic direction and technical oversight to a growing team.
Key Responsibilities
Project Leadership & Delivery
- Lead the preparation and review of Transport Assessments, Transport Statements, Travel Plans, and Environmental Transport chapters.
- Provide strategic transport advice to support planning applications, appeals, and site promotions.
- Oversee multi-disciplinary project teams to ensure timely, high-quality delivery.
- Act as technical sign-off for key reports and client deliverables.
Client & Stakeholder Management
- Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, local authorities, and key stakeholders.
- Represent clients in meetings, public consultations, and hearings where required.
- Provide clear, commercially focused advice aligned with client objectives.
Business Development
- Identify and secure new business opportunities within the development planning sector.
- Prepare fee proposals, tender submissions, and framework applications.
- Contribute to the growth strategy of the transport planning team.
Team Leadership & Mentorship
- Manage, mentor, and develop junior and mid-level staff.
- Support recruitment and team expansion.
- Foster a collaborative, high-performance team culture.
Strategic Input
- Contribute to the wider business strategy and service innovation.
- Stay informed on planning policy, transport trends, and regulatory changes.
- Promote sustainable and integrated transport solutions in development planning.
Requirements
Essential:
- Degree in Transport Planning, Civil Engineering, Geography, or a related field.
- Significant experience in transport planning, with a focus on development planning.
- Strong knowledge of UK planning policy and transport guidance.
- Proven experience managing projects and client relationships.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
Desirable:
- Chartered status (e.g., CEng, CIHT, TPS, or equivalent).
- Experience acting as an expert witness at planning appeals.
- Established client network and track record in winning work.
Key Competencies
- Strategic thinking and commercial awareness
- Leadership and team development
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Effective stakeholder engagement
- Ability to manage multiple priorities under pressure
What We Offer
- Opportunity to shape and grow a key service area
- Clear pathway to Director-level progression
- Flexible working arrangements
- Competitive salary and performance-related bonus
- Comprehensive benefits package