Associate Director of Town Planning

Job Title: Associate Director of Town Planning

Location: Bristol

Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading UK planning and development consultancy in the search for an Associate Director of Town Planning to join their growing team in Bristol.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced planning professional to take on a senior leadership role within a well-established and ambitious consultancy. Working as part of a collaborative multidisciplinary team, you will lead the delivery of strategic planning projects, strengthen client relationships, and play a key role in the continued growth of the South West business.

You will work on a diverse portfolio of projects, including residential planning applications, land promotion schemes, and strategic development opportunities, collaborating closely with specialists in design, heritage, and development economics to deliver high-quality planning solutions.

The successful candidate will lead projects from initial planning strategy through to securing planning permission, represent clients throughout the planning process, mentor junior colleagues, and contribute to business development by identifying new opportunities and growing existing client relationships.

Key requirements include:

• A relevant Town Planning qualification and Chartered membership of the RTPI.

Significant experience delivering planning applications, appeals, and strategic planning projects across a variety of sectors.

Excellent knowledge of the UK planning system and development process.

Experience working within the Bristol and wider South West market, with a strong understanding of the regional planning landscape.

Excellent report writing, communication, client management, and leadership skills.

A proven ability to build long-term client relationships, generate new business opportunities, and contribute to the growth of a planning team.

The confidence to lead complex projects, mentor colleagues, and work effectively within a multidisciplinary consultancy.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an established Associate Director, or an experienced Associate Town Planner ready to step into a leadership role, to join a respected consultancy with ambitious growth plans. In return, you'll benefit from flexible hybrid working, an excellent benefits package, exposure to high-profile projects, and genuine long-term career progression within a supportive and forward-thinking business.

Interested?

The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones on (phone number removed) or (url removed)