Associate Director

This is a remote position. Posting Title: Associate Director Industry: Planning Consultancy Salary: Depending on experience + Bonus + Benefits Work Experience: 5+ years Location: Hybrid (fully remote working available; optional office attendance at our Leeds-based office up to a couple of days per month, depending on individual preference and project needs) --- Summary We are seeking an accomplished and strategic Associate Director to join our dynamic planning consultancy, driving high-impact, sustainable development solutions across rural and urban landscapes. This role is central to our planning team, where you will lead complex planning projects, shape policy-informed strategies, and mentor senior planners in delivering innovative, client-focused outcomes. As an Associate Director, you will play a key role in expanding our market presence, particularly in rural planning, including site allocations, farm diversification, permitted development rights, leisure and tourism developments, and landed estate planning. With a strong foundation in private sector planning practice, you will contribute to shaping the future of sustainable land use while supporting the firm’s growth and reputation as a trusted advisor in the planning sector. This position is fully remote, with the option to work from home or visit our Leeds office up to a couple of days per month—ideal for those who value flexibility and autonomy. For those living nearby, we offer enhanced flexibility and the option to work in a collaborative office environment whenever preferred. Whether you thrive remotely or in a team setting, the choice is yours. --- Responsibilities - Lead and manage high-value planning projects from inception to delivery, ensuring compliance with national and local planning policies. - Provide strategic leadership in rural planning, including site allocations, farm diversification schemes, permitted development rights, and leisure/tourism development proposals. - Advise clients on complex land use issues, including estate planning, conservation, and development viability, ensuring alignment with policy frameworks and client objectives. - Mentor and develop Senior Planners and junior team members, fostering a culture of professional growth, innovation, and accountability. - Contribute to business development initiatives, including proposal writing, client engagement, and identifying new market opportunities. - Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to deliver integrated planning, environmental, and design solutions. - Represent the firm in professional forums, planning hearings, and stakeholder consultations, demonstrating thought leadership and technical expertise. - Maintain a deep understanding of evolving planning legislation, including the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), Local Plans, and emerging sustainability standards. - Support the delivery of advisory services with a focus on long-term strategic planning, development management, and policy formulation. --- Requirements Requirements: - Minimum of 5 years of proven experience in private sector planning consultancy, with a strong track record in rural planning and land use strategy. - Demonstrated expertise in site allocations, farm diversification, permitted development rights, leisure and tourism developments, and landed estate planning. - In-depth knowledge of the UK planning system, including the NPPF, Local Plan preparation, and development management processes. - Strong leadership and mentoring abilities, with experience managing teams or junior planners. - Excellent communication and presentation skills, with the ability to engage with clients, stakeholders, and planning authorities at all levels. - Proven track record in delivering complex planning projects on time and within budget. - Ability to work autonomously and collaboratively within a hybrid working environment. - Degree in Town Planning, Geography, Environmental Planning, or a related field; - MRTPI membership is advantageous. - Commitment to continuous professional development and a passion for sustainable, community-focused development. Contact for Confidential Enquiries If you are interested in this opportunity or would like to speak with Rob Hanks directly for confidential discussions, please contact FutureGen Recruitment at: Email: [email protected]  Phone:  (0) 20 7112 8420 or 07855 276123 All inquiries will be handled with discretion and confidentiality. --- This role is part of an ongoing recruitment effort, with interviews conducted on an ad hoc basis due to a selective candidate pool. We welcome applications from candidates who are ready to lead, innovate, and grow within a forward-thinking consultancy. Benefits The role offers a competitive salary depending on your experience, performance-based bonus, 5% pension contribution, wellness allowance (£25/month), and a flexible, supportive work environment designed to foster professional excellence and personal well-being.