Associate Director (Planning)Location: ManchesterSalary: £60,000 + Car Allowance Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading independent planning consultancy in their search for an Associate Director to help lead the launch of their new Manchester office. With an established reputation for delivering high-quality planning and development services across the UK, this consultancy is known for its collaborative, commercially-minded approach and its commitment to supporting clients across a wide range of sectors. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned planning professional to help shape the direction of a new regional presence and make a significant impact during an exciting period of growth. Overview The Role As Associate Director (Planning) – Non-Executive, you will provide strategic oversight and leadership to ensure the operational effectiveness of the new Manchester office. You’ll act as a trusted advisor, contribute to key decisions, and represent the consultancy in the local market. Key Responsibilities Stakeholder Management

Represent the business at local events and forums. Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders and the local business community.

Compliance and Governance

Ensure all office operations align with local planning regulations and internal policies. Provide regular progress updates to the Managing Director, highlighting key opportunities and challenges.

Recruitment and Team Building

Support the recruitment and onboarding of the new Manchester team. Foster a collaborative and professional culture aligned with the consultancy’s values.

Performance Monitoring

Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for the new office. Offer strategic recommendations to enhance performance and operational efficiency.

Planning Consultancy Work

Respond to planning enquiries and manage the full scope of planning services for clients. Deliver fee proposals, conduct site appraisals, submit planning applications and appeals, and advise on planning policy and development strategy.

Experience Required

Proven experience in a senior planning leadership role. Strong strategic planning, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills. In-depth knowledge of the Manchester and North West planning landscape. Sound understanding of compliance and regulatory requirements. Ability to make autonomous, well-informed decisions. MRTPI qualification (essential). Prior non-executive or advisory experience (desirable).

What’s on Offer

Competitive remuneration package (£60K + car allowance) Strategic advisory position with high-level influence Opportunity to shape and support a major regional expansion

Interested? To apply or find out more, contact Josh Jones at Penguin Recruitment on 01792362010 or email josh.jones@penguinrecruitment.co.uk in confidence. #J-18808-Ljbffr