Associate Director – Strategic Planning Consultancy - Edinburgh

Are you an experienced planning professional ready to step into a senior leadership position? We are partnering with a well-regarded, independent planning and development consultancy with offices across the UK — including Scotland and Northern Ireland — to recruit a motivated and commercially astute Associate Director to help lead and grow their practice. The firm is known for delivering high-quality planning advice across a variety of sectors, advising both public and private sector clients on complex development challenges.

Role Summary

As an Associate Director, you will:

• Lead and manage high-profile planning projects from inception through submission and determination.
• Provide senior-level planning strategy and development advice to a diverse client base.
• Act as a key client contact, building strong relationships and ensuring exceptional service delivery.
• Mentor and support more junior planners, fostering a collaborative and high-performance team culture.
• Contribute to business development, helping shape and drive strategic growth initiatives.

This is a senior role ideal for a chartered planner or senior planner ready to take on broader leadership responsibilities, influencing both project outcomes and the long-term success of the consultancy.

What We’re Looking For

• Substantial experience in UK town planning, ideally gained in consultancy or senior local government roles.
• MRTPI accreditation (or equivalent chartership) with proven delivery of complex planning approvals.
• A strategic thinker with excellent communication and client engagement skills.
• A proactive leader who can manage teams, mentor staff, and contribute to business growth.
• Strong commercial awareness, with confidence in shaping project approaches and identifying new opportunities.

Why This Role Matters

This consultancy prides itself on a personable, professional and proactive approach to planning advice — blending technical excellence with a collaborative mindset to deliver real impact for clients. You will be joining a growing team that values innovation, high standards and long-term client relationships while offering opportunities for professional and leadership development.

What You’ll Gain

• Broader leadership responsibilities within a respected planning practice.
• Meaningful influence on the direction of strategic projects and firm growth.
• Exposure to diverse planning work, from housing and renewables to complex redevelopment schemes.
• A supportive and collegial working environment with flexible working options.

For more, please contact Neil Ellerton of Penguin Recruitment on 01792 365 108