Planning Studio - Studio Leader

The Planning Studio Leader demonstrates the leadership, technical expertise, and business acumen necessary to lead and grow NELSON’s Planning Studio while delivering exceptional client service and successful project outcomes. This individual is responsible for the overall performance of the studio, including teammate development, resource management, project delivery, quality, and financial performance.

The Planning Studio Leader provides strategic direction and oversight for a range of urban planning and development initiatives, including land use planning, master planning, zoning and entitlements, community development, and sustainable design. Working collaboratively with Practice Leadership, project leads, and clients, this individual ensures projects are executed successfully while identifying opportunities to strengthen existing client relationships, pursue new business, and expand the studio’s capabilities and market presence.

A key responsibility of this role is building a collaborative and engaging studio environment where teammates are supported, developed, and empowered to excel. The Planning Studio Leader mentors and grows NELSON talent, establishes a vision for the studio, and ensures the team has the resources, guidance, and technical expertise necessary to deliver high-quality work and achieve business objectives.

Attributes to support the NELSON culture:

• Go All In. Own the Outcome.We go all in—with urgency, follow-through, and pride in the result.
• Be Direct. Be Respectful. Be Authentic.We keep it real—with clarity, candor, and care.
• Grow with Purpose.We embrace growth—through learning, coaching, and continuous improvement.
• Think Bold. Execute Smart.We think boldly—and pair ambition with discipline.
• Make Space for Everyone.We value you—and build a culture where people can thrive and do their best work.

Qualifications
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To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty and responsibility satisfactorily. The requirements listed below are representative of the knowledge, skill, and/or ability required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Critical features of this job are described under the headings below. They may be subject to change at any time due to reasonable accommodation or other reasons.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities include the following. Other duties may be assigned:

Provide strategic direction and establish a vision for the Planning Studio, aligning team goals and priorities with broader firm and practice objectives.

Lead, mentor, and develop project leads and teammates, fostering an environment of accountability, collaboration, professional growth, and continuous improvement.

Manage and support project leads and assigned teams, ensuring teammates are engaged, appropriately supported, and positioned for success.

Establish performance goals, conduct performance evaluations, provide regular feedback, and identify opportunities for professional development and advancement.

Develop project leads in core responsibilities, including communication, presentation skills, time management, workload prioritization, and team leadership.

Evaluate team capabilities and identify opportunities to strengthen technical expertise and expand studio capabilities.

Promote a diverse and inclusive workplace that encourages collaboration, innovation, and engagement.

Develop professional and industry relationships that support talent acquisition and the continued growth of the studio.

Address team challenges, resolve conflicts, and maintain a positive and productive studio environment.

Serve as a resource and mentor to teammates across the studio and…