Regional Director - London or Cambridge Office

Location: London/ Cambridge
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).
Relevant professional experience, including private sector exposure and leadership on large-scale schemes.
7 + 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.

Regional Director - Planning