Job Title: Associate / Associate Director – Town Planning
Location: London

An outstanding opportunity has arisen for a talented and ambitious Associate or Associate Director-level Town Planner to join a leading UK multidisciplinary consultancy, supporting the delivery of major infrastructure projects in the Water and Energy sectors.

This is a key appointment for a high-performing national planning team at the forefront of sustainable development and infrastructure delivery. The role offers the chance to work across complex Development Consent Orders (DCOs), large-scale planning applications, and multi-disciplinary project environments shaping the UK’s critical infrastructure.

The Role:

You will play a lead role in managing and delivering major planning projects, with a particular focus on water and energy infrastructure. Working with major clients including national utilities and infrastructure providers, you will oversee multi-disciplinary teams and play an integral part in project delivery and client engagement.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leading the preparation and management of Planning Applications and Development Consent Orders.
• Acting as a planning lead on major infrastructure schemes, primarily in the Water and Energy sectors.
• Overseeing multi-disciplinary project teams to ensure high-quality, timely delivery.
• Preparing bid submissions, tender responses and contributing to framework appointments.
• Developing and maintaining client relationships to support growth across key markets.
• Supporting and mentoring junior team members and contributing to team development.

About You:

You will be a commercially astute and confident professional, with proven experience in planning within infrastructure and large-scale developments.

Essential Criteria:

• A degree in Town Planning or a related discipline.
• Chartered Member of the RTPI or working towards accreditation.
• Demonstrable experience in major planning applications and/or DCOs.
• Strong understanding of TCPA, DCO, TWAO and EIA processes.
• Skilled in project management and delivery within a consultancy or infrastructure setting.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Proven ability to lead multi-disciplinary teams and liaise effectively with clients and stakeholders.

Desirable:

• Sector experience in Water and Energy.
• Experience supporting business development and client engagement.
• Working knowledge of ESG, Net Zero, and digital transformation within planning.

What’s on Offer:

• Opportunity to work with a collaborative and respected national planning team.
• A diverse project portfolio spanning sustainable infrastructure, net zero and critical utilities.
• Supportive environment for career progression and professional development.
• Flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.

To apply or learn more, please contact Josh Jones at Penguin Recruitment
Email: josh.jone@penguinrecruitment.co.uk
Phone: 01792 365 000