Regional Director - Planning

Regional Director - London Office

Location: London
Division: Planning
Reports to: Director of Planning

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.