Planning Director - Winchester

Location: Winchester | Hybrid / Flexible Working
Contract: Full-time, Permanent

The Role

A specialist planning consultancy known for its technical excellence and quality advice is seeking an experienced Planning Director to join its senior leadership team. This is a strategic and influential leadership role, responsible for driving technical standards, shaping the future direction of the practice, and supporting ongoing growth across complex planning sectors, including rural development, mixed-use and bespoke residential schemes.

You will work closely with the Managing Director, lead on high-profile and sensitive projects, mentor and develop the planning team, and help expand the business’s reputation in the UK market.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide authoritative technical leadership on complex planning cases and sensitive development proposals.
• Set and maintain high professional and technical planning standards across the practice.
• Lead strategic planning advice, negotiations with authorities, and major appeal or inquiry representation.
• Shape the practice’s direction, service development, and market positioning alongside the senior leadership.
• Support business development, including identifying new opportunities and influencing fee and resourcing strategies.
• Inspire, mentor, and develop planners at all levels, helping to embed a culture of excellence and collaboration.
• Represent the practice externally at industry events, client meetings, and senior stakeholder engagements.

About You

• Chartered member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
• Extensive senior planning experience (typically 12–15+ years) with a demonstrated track record of delivering technically excellent results.
• Deep understanding of UK planning policy and strategy, with the ability to interpret and apply it creatively and pragmatically.
• Strong leadership and mentoring skills, with a passion for developing others and fostering a high-performing team.
• Excellent communication, decision-making, and professional judgement with commercial awareness.

What We Offer

• Competitive leadership salary package with bonus potential and flexible working options.
• Paid RTPI membership and professional support.
• Comprehensive benefits including pension, private medical, generous holiday allowance, sabbaticals, and lifestyle perks.
• Hybrid working and high-spec IT equipment for remote productivity.
• A collaborative, supportive culture that values professional excellence and personal development.

Apply now or contact Marta at [email protected] / 01792 677 055 for a confidential chat.