Technical Director / Associate Director – Town Planning (North of England)
Location: Flexible – offices in Manchester, Leeds, Sheffield or surrounding areas

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting one of the world’s leading multi-disciplinary consultancy firms in their search for a senior-level Planning professional.

Are you ready to lead and grow a dynamic planning team working on some of the UK’s most high-profile infrastructure and development projects? Our client is a globally recognised consultancy known for driving innovation and delivering transformative projects across energy, transport, water, housing and regeneration sectors.

You’ll be joining one of the UK’s top-tier planning consultancies – a team that is influencing the future of sustainable development, Net Zero, ESG, and Biodiversity Net Gain. They’re seeking a Technical Director or Associate Director to strengthen their Planning and Environmental team in the North of England and lead the growth of their regional presence.

About the Role:

As a senior leader in the team, you’ll be responsible for:

• Growing and mentoring a team of town planners across the region.
• Leading high-value planning commissions and directing multidisciplinary bids for major infrastructure and development projects.
• Managing commercial and operational aspects of projects.
• Driving collaboration across national teams and contributing to business development efforts.
• Providing expert planning guidance to a wide range of clients including central and local government, utilities, developers and infrastructure providers.
• Supporting career progression and technical development of junior team members.

Key Projects Include:

• National infrastructure schemes such as HS2, Transpennine Route Upgrade, and major National Highways road programmes.
• Renewable energy and low carbon schemes including offshore wind, hydrogen, and nuclear.
• Strategic land and housing projects in partnership with Homes England and local authorities.
• Planning advisory work to central government and regional growth partnerships.

What We’re Looking For:

• RTPI Chartered Planner with a degree or postgrad qualification in Town Planning.
• Proven experience in consultancy or multidisciplinary environments.
• Strong track record in leading complex infrastructure or development projects.
• Excellent client-facing, commercial and team leadership skills.
• Ability to lead business development and build strategic relationships.
• A collaborative, forward-thinking approach with a passion for innovation and sustainability.

Why Join?

You’ll be part of a business that offers more than just a job – this is a platform for influence, innovation, and leadership in planning. With industry-leading employee networks, ED&I commitments, and flexible working arrangements, this is a place where you can thrive professionally and personally.

Whether your background is in strategic planning, infrastructure delivery, or client-side advisory – if you’re looking to shape the future of planning in a high-impact role, we want to hear from you.

Interested?
Apply today or contact Josh at Penguin Recruitment for a confidential conversation.
josh.jones@penguinrecruitment.co.uk or 01792 362 010