Associate Director - Town Planning

Job Title: Associate Director - Town Planning Location: Colchester Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading UK planning, development economics, and design consultancy in their search for an Associate Director to join their established team. About the Company: This highly regarded consultancy has built a strong reputation for delivering expert planning and development advice across England and Wales. Working with major developers, housebuilders, and public sector clients, they are known for their collaborative culture, innovative thinking, and involvement in high-profile and complex projects. The Role: As part of the Colchester-based planning team, you will play a key leadership role in delivering a wide range of projects. This will include strategic planning, development management, and coordinating planning applications for both private and public sector clients. You will also contribute to the continued growth and success of the office, supporting team development and strengthening client relationships. Key Responsibilities: • Lead and manage planning projects from inception through to delivery • Provide strategic planning advice to a diverse client base • Oversee development management projects and planning applications • Coordinate multi-disciplinary teams and consultants • Build and maintain strong client relationships • Support business development and contribute to office growth Requirements: • Minimum of 6 years' planning experience • MRTPI qualified • Strong commercial awareness with experience in both forward planning and development management • Excellent knowledge of UK planning legislation • Strong analytical and report writing skills • Confident communicator with experience in client-facing roles • Proven project management capabilities • Experience working within the local area is advantageous What's on Offer: • Competitive salary package based on experience • Opportunity to work on a diverse portfolio of high-profile projects • Clear career progression within a respected national consultancy • Supportive and collaborative working environment Benefits Include: • 25 days annual leave + bank holidays (increasing with service up to 30 days) • Private medical insurance • Pension scheme (salary sacrifice) • Life assurance / Death in Service benefit • Employee assistance programme (24/7 support) • Cycle to work scheme • Eye care vouchers • Staff referral bonus scheme • Retail and service discounts This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced planning professional to step into a senior leadership role within a dynamic and growing consultancy, contributing to impactful projects and shaping future development. Interested? The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones on or