Job Title: Director of Town Planning
Location: West Yorkshire
Reports to: Managing Director / CEO
Role Overview
We are seeking an experienced and commercially astute Director of Town Planning to lead and grow our planning consultancy practice. This role combines strategic leadership, client development, and technical excellence, with responsibility for delivering high-quality planning advice across a diverse portfolio of projects.
The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping the direction of the business, strengthening client relationships, and driving revenue growth while ensuring best-in-class planning outcomes.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Strategy
- Lead, mentor, and develop a team of planning professionals at all levels
- Define and execute the strategic vision for the planning division
- Contribute to overall business strategy and senior leadership decisions
- Foster a high-performance, collaborative, and client-focused culture
Client Development & Business Growth
- Develop and maintain strong relationships with key clients, stakeholders, and partners
- Identify and secure new business opportunities across sectors (residential, commercial, mixed-use, infrastructure, etc.)
- Lead major bids, tenders, and pitches
- Represent the consultancy at industry events, networking forums, and public engagements
Project Delivery
- Oversee the delivery of complex planning projects from inception to completion
- Provide expert advice on planning policy, development management, and regulatory frameworks
- Ensure projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest professional standards
- Act as a lead advisor on high-profile or sensitive schemes
Commercial & Operational Management
- Manage departmental budgets, financial performance, and profitability
- Monitor project pipelines, resource allocation, and utilisation
- Ensure compliance with regulatory, legal, and professional standards
- Implement best practices, systems, and processes to enhance efficiency
Key Requirements
Experience & Qualifications
- Degree in Town Planning, Urban Planning, or a related discipline
- Chartered membership of a relevant professional body (e.g. MRTPI)
- Extensive experience in a planning consultancy or similar environment
- Proven track record in winning work and delivering major projects
Skills & Competencies
- Strong leadership and people management skills
- Excellent commercial awareness and business development capability
- In-depth knowledge of planning policy, legislation, and procedures
- Exceptional communication, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills
- Strategic thinker with the ability to drive growth and innovation
Desirable Attributes
- Established industry network and client base
- Experience working across both public and private sector projects
- Ability to influence at senior levels and represent the business externally
- Passion for sustainable development and placemaking
What We Offer
- Competitive executive salary and performance-based bonus
- Equity or profit-sharing opportunities (if applicable)
- Flexible working arrangements
- Professional development and leadership growth opportunities
- A key role in shaping the future of a growing consultancy