Associate Director of Town Planning

Overview

Job Title:

Associate Director of Town Planning

Location:

Bristol

Penguin Recruitment is supporting a leading UK planning and development consultancy in the search for an Associate Director of Town Planning to join their growing team in Bristol. This is a senior leadership role within a well-established and ambitious consultancy. You will lead the delivery of strategic planning projects, strengthen client relationships, and contribute to the continued growth of the South West business as part of a collaborative multidisciplinary team.

• Lead projects from initial planning strategy through to securing planning permission.
• Represent clients throughout the planning process.
• Mentor junior colleagues and contribute to business development by identifying new opportunities and growing existing client relationships.
• Work on a diverse portfolio of projects, including residential planning applications, land promotion schemes, and strategic development opportunities, in collaboration with specialists in design, heritage, and development economics to deliver high-quality planning solutions.
• Lead delivery of strategic planning projects, strengthen client relationships, and contribute to the growth of the South West business as part of a multidisciplinary team.

• A relevant Town Planning qualification and Chartered membership of the RTPI.
• Significant experience delivering planning applications, appeals, and strategic planning projects across a variety of sectors.
• Excellent knowledge of the UK planning system and development process.
• Experience working within the Bristol and wider South West market, with a strong understanding of the regional planning landscape.
• Excellent report writing, communication, client management, and leadership skills.
• A proven ability to build long-term client relationships, generate new business opportunities, and contribute to the growth of a planning team.
• The confidence to lead complex projects, mentor colleagues, and work effectively within a multidisciplinary consultancy.

• Flexible hybrid working, an excellent benefits package, exposure to high-profile projects, and genuine long-term career progression within a supportive and forward-thinking business.