Associate Director - Town Planning

Associate Director – Town Planning – Manchester – Up to £65,000 + Benefits

• Lead complex planning projects at a respected, design‑led consultancy
• Based in central Manchester with flexible hybrid working options
• Shape strategy, guide clients, and mentor junior planners
• Excellent package with scope for further progression

Our client is a well‑established planning and design consultancy, delivering expert planning advice and strategy across sectors including green infrastructure, commercial, mixed‑use, and residential. Known for their collaborative approach and planning insight, they work on some of the UK’s most ambitious and challenging development projects. Due to sustained growth, they are now seeking an Associate Director – Town Planning to join their Manchester office and help lead the team into its next phase of success.

• Salary up to £65,000 depending on experience
• Hybrid working model and flexible hours
• Annual performance bonus
• Clear pathway to Director‑level progression
• Supportive and inclusive team culture
• APC support and structured CPD
• Strategic input across multidisciplinary teams

You’ll take a lead role in delivering planning strategy for a range of high‑profile projects across the North and nationally. This will involve leading projects, managing client relationships, preparing and overseeing planning applications and appeals, and offering expert advice at all stages of the development lifecycle. You’ll also contribute to business development, lead internal project teams, and provide mentorship to junior planners.

This role combines hands‑on planning work with leadership, commercial awareness, and strategic thinking.

• MRTPI chartered with a strong track record in consultancy or client‑side planning
• At least 10 years’ professional experience within the UK planning system
• Demonstrable experience leading planning applications and appeals
  
  Confident managing clients, stakeholders, and project teams
• Strong commercial awareness and interest in business development
• Clear, persuasive written and verbal communication skills