Our client, a leading employee-owned planning-led consultancy, is seeking an Associate Director to join their growing team in Bedford. This is an exciting opportunity to take on a senior role within a highly regarded multidisciplinary practice, working across a diverse range of projects and sectors.

As an Associate Director, you will play a pivotal role in leading projects, managing client relationships, and supporting the professional development of more junior staff. You will work closely with Directors while enjoying the autonomy to manage your own portfolio of work and contribute to the continued growth of the practice.

Associate Director Job Overview

Lead and manage a range of planning projects across residential, commercial, and specialist housing sectors. Prepare and submit planning applications, appeals, Local Plan representations, and site promotion work. Represent clients at hearings, public inquiries, and Examinations in Public. Provide strategic planning advice to a variety of private and public sector clients. Oversee project budgets, billing, and fee proposals. Actively contribute to business development by networking, maintaining existing client relationships, and securing new opportunities. Mentor and support junior team members, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment. Contribute to the growth and profile of the Bedford office, while supporting the delivery of projects nationwide.

Associate Director Job Requirements

Chartered membership of the RTPI Living in or around the Bedford area Minimum of 8-10 years' professional planning experience, with a strong background in the private sector. Proven track record of managing complex planning applications and appeals. Strong commercial awareness with experience providing planning advice to clients. Excellent written, verbal, and technical communication skills. Demonstrable ability to build and maintain client relationships. Full UK driving licence. Self-motivated, proactive, and capable of working independently as well as within a team.

Associate Director Salary & Benefits

Competitive salary (negotiable depending on experience). Hybrid working model, with a balance of office collaboration and home flexibility. Private healthcare with BUPA. Life insurance. Company pension scheme with salary sacrifice option. Cycle to work scheme. Contributions towards professional subscriptions. Enhanced maternity scheme. Structured CPD programme with regular training and annual reviews. Employee Ownership Trust model, ensuring staff wellbeing, inclusion, and diversity remain at the forefront of the organisation. Other Benefits Discussed At Interview Stage

Bennett & Game Recruitment are acting as a Recruitment Agency in relation to this vacancy.

Bennett and Game Recruitment are a multi-disciplined technical recruitment agency based in Chichester, West Sussex operating across the UK with specialist teams covering a range of industries.

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