Director of Planning

About the role

Penguin Recruitment is supporting a leading multidisciplinary consultancy in London to appoint a Director of Planning. This senior leader will shape the future of the planning business, driving major infrastructure and development projects across sectors such as energy, transport, water, housing and Net Zero.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for the UK planning practice and influence its long‑term direction.
• Secure and develop major infrastructure and development projects, expanding market presence.
• Lead nationally significant planning commissions and manage key client accounts.
• Oversee project delivery, commercial performance, governance and risk management.
• Collaborate with planning, environmental, engineering and design teams to deliver multidisciplinary solutions.
• Build and nurture long‑term client relationships.
• Mentor, develop and recruit high‑performing planning teams.
• Promote innovation, technical excellence and thought leadership within the sector.

Required profile

• RTPI accredited degree or postgraduate qualification in Town Planning.
• MRTPI membership.
• Extensive consultancy experience at Associate Director, Director or equivalent level.
• Proven track record of winning and delivering major infrastructure and development projects.
• Strong experience leading high‑performing planning teams.
• Excellent understanding of the UK planning system.

Required skills