Associate Director (Planning) Location: Manchester Salary: GBP60,000 + Car Allowance Penguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading independent planning consultancy in their search for an Associate Director to help lead the launch of their new Manchester office. With an established reputation for delivering high:quality planning and development services across the UK, this consultancy is known for its collaborative, commercially:minded approach and its commitment to supporting clients across a wide range of sectors. This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned planning professional to help shape the direction of a new regional presence and make a significant impact during an exciting period of growth. The Role As Associate Director (Planning) : Non:Executive, you will provide strategic oversight and leadership to ensure the operational effectiveness of the new Manchester office. Youll act as a trusted advisor, contribute to key decisions, and represent the consultancy in the local market. Key Responsibilities Stakeholder Management * Represent the business at local events and forums. * Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders and the local business community. Compliance and Governance * Ensure all office operations align with local planning regulations and internal policies. * Provide regular progress updates to the Managing Director, highlighting key opportunities and challenges. Recruitment and Team Building * Support the recruitment and onboarding of the new Manchester team. * Foster a collaborative and professional culture aligned with the consultancys values. Performance Monitoring * Define and monitor key performance indicators (KPIs) for the new office. * Offer strategic recommendations to enhance performance and operational efficiency. Planning Consultancy Work * Respond to planning enquiries and manage the full scope of planning services for clients. * Deliver fee proposals, conduct site appraisals, submit planning applications and appeals, and advise on planning policy and development strategy. Experience Required * Proven experience in a senior planning leadership role. * Strong strategic planning, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills. * In:depth knowledge of the Manchester and North West planning landscape. * Sound understanding of compliance and regulatory requirements. * Ability to make autonomous, well:informed decisions. * MRTPI qualification (essential). * Prior non:executive or advisory experience (desirable). Whats on Offer * Competitive remuneration package (GBP60K + car allowance) * Strategic advisory position with high:level influence * Opportunity to shape and support a major regional expansion Interested? or find out more, contact Josh Jones at Penguin Recruitment on or email in confidence.