Associate Director
This is a remote position.
Posting Title: Associate Director
Industry: Planning Consultancy
Salary: Depending on experience + Bonus + Benefits
Work Experience: 5+ years
Location: Hybrid (fully remote working available; optional office attendance at our Leeds-based office up to a couple of days per month, depending on individual preference and project needs)
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Summary
We are seeking an accomplished and strategic Associate Director to join our dynamic planning consultancy, driving high-impact, sustainable development solutions across rural and urban landscapes.
This role is central to our planning team, where you will lead complex planning projects, shape policy-informed strategies, and mentor senior planners in delivering innovative, client-focused outcomes.
As an Associate Director, you will play a key role in expanding our market presence, particularly in rural planning, including site allocations, farm diversification, permitted development rights, leisure and tourism developments, and landed estate planning. With a strong foundation in private sector planning practice, you will contribute to shaping the future of sustainable land use while supporting the firm’s growth and reputation as a trusted advisor in the planning sector.
This position is fully remote, with the option to work from home or visit our Leeds office up to a couple of days per month—ideal for those who value flexibility and autonomy. For those living nearby, we offer enhanced flexibility and the option to work in a collaborative office environment whenever preferred. Whether you thrive remotely or in a team setting, the choice is yours.
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Responsibilities
Lead and manage high-value planning projects from inception to delivery, ensuring compliance with national and local planning policies.
Provide strategic leadership in rural planning, including site allocations, farm diversification schemes, permitted development rights, and leisure/tourism development proposals.
Advise clients on complex land use issues, including estate planning, conservation, and development viability, ensuring alignment with policy frameworks and client objectives.
Mentor and develop Senior Planners and junior team members, fostering a culture of professional growth, innovation, and accountability.
Contribute to business development initiatives, including proposal writing, client engagement, and identifying new market opportunities.
Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated planning, environmental, and design solutions.
Represent the firm in professional forums, planning hearings, and stakeholder consultations, demonstrating thought leadership and technical expertise.
Maintain a deep understanding of evolving planning legislation, including the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Local Plans, and emerging sustainability standards.
Support the delivery of advisory services with a focus on long-term strategic planning, development management, and policy formulation.
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Requirements
Requirements:
Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in private sector planning consultancy, with a strong track record in rural planning and land use strategy.
Demonstrated expertise in site allocations, farm diversification, permitted development rights, leisure and tourism developments, and landed estate planning.
In-depth knowledge of the UK planning system, including the NPPF, Local Plan preparation, and development management processes.
Strong leadership and mentoring abilities, with experience managing teams or junior planners.
Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage with clients, stakeholders, and planning authorities at all levels.
Proven track record in delivering complex planning projects on time and within budget.
Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively within a hybrid working environment.
Degree in Town Planning, Geography, Environmental Planning, or a related field;
MRTPI membership is advantageous.
Commitment to continuous professional development and a passion for sustainable, community-focused development.
Contact for Confidential Enquiries
If you are interested in this opportunity or would like to speak with Rob Hanks directly for confidential discussions, please contact FutureGen Recruitment at:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (0) 20 7112 8420 or 07855 276123
All inquiries will be handled with discretion and confidentiality.
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This role is part of an ongoing recruitment effort, with interviews conducted on an ad hoc basis due to a selective candidate pool. We welcome applications from candidates who are ready to lead, innovate, and grow within a forward-thinking consultancy.
Benefits
The role offers a competitive salary depending on your experience, performance-based bonus, 5% pension contribution, wellness allowance (£25/month), and a flexible, supportive work environment designed to foster professional excellence and personal well-being.
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