Overview

A well-established national planning consultancy is seeking a dynamic and commercially focused Regional Director to lead the Planning team based in London. This senior leadership role offers the opportunity to drive growth, manage a multidisciplinary team, and take responsibility for client development across a range of sectors including Residential, Commercial, and Estates.

The successful candidate will help shape the direction of the division, contribute to the overall company strategy, and act as a senior representative of the business within the industry.

Key Responsibilities

• Team & Office Leadership: Manage and mentor the London planning team, overseeing project delivery, performance, and staff development.
• Strategic Oversight: Support the Director of Planning with national division strategy and business operations.
• Client & Business Development:
• Build and strengthen relationships with new and existing clients.
• Lead client-facing activity including tenders, presentations, and negotiations.
• Identify growth opportunities across all sectors and convert them into revenue-generating projects.
• Cross-disciplinary Collaboration: Foster integration with other teams and disciplines across the company to deliver holistic client solutions.
• Project Delivery:
• Manage complex planning projects independently, including appeals and strategic planning assessments.
• Provide expert guidance to colleagues, clients, and stakeholders throughout the project lifecycle.
• Operational Responsibility:
• Oversee financial performance, resource planning, and SHEQ compliance for the office.
• Lead contractual negotiations with clients and suppliers.

Skills & Experience Required

• RTPI-accredited degree and Chartered Membership of the Royal Town Planning Institute (MRTPI).
• Minimum 8 years' professional experience, including private sector exposure and leadership on large-scale schemes.
• 3-5+ years in a people management or operational leadership role, ideally within a consultancy setting.
• Proven ability to win and manage high-value projects with minimal senior oversight.
• Strong understanding of UK planning legislation and political context.
• Exceptional client relationship, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Advanced project management and report writing abilities.

What’s on Offer

• We believe in supporting and rewarding our people. Benefits include:
• Health & Wellbeing
• Private medical insurance
• Medical cash plan
• Discounted gym memberships
• Employee assistance programme
• Day-to-Day Flexibility
• Enhanced annual leave + loyalty days
• Hybrid working
• Lifestyle discounts (retail, travel, entertainment)
• Recognition & Progression
• Company bonus scheme
• Defined promotion windows
• Team celebrations and events
• Future Planning
• Enhanced pension contributions
• Life assurance cover
• Professional Development
• Funded professional membership
• Protected CPD time
• Access to industry-leading learning resources
• Clear career progression framework

If you\'re an experienced planning professional with a strong network, leadership capability, and commercial drive, this is a unique opportunity to shape and grow a successful office within a collaborative and ambitious national practice