Principal to Associate Director Planner (Renewable Energy)

Overview

In this role, you will lead planning and consenting work for major energy and infrastructure projects, guiding DCOs and TCPA processes. You will work with cross-functional teams to shape policy guidance, manage client relationships, and deliver complex projects on time and within budget. You’ll provide strategic planning advice, navigate environmental requirements, and mentor junior colleagues to support team growth. This position offers high-profile exposure, opportunities for quick progression, and a hybrid working setup across major UK cities. You will play a pivotal part in delivering the UK’s energy future through influential, multi-stakeholder initiatives.

Pay / Benefits

• Hybrid working
• Flexible working across four major UK cities

Responsibilities

• Lead planning and consenting strategies for major energy and infrastructure developments
• Advise on Development Consent Orders (DCOs), Section 36/37 consents and TCPA planning applications
• Manage multidisciplinary teams across complex projects
• Provide strategic advice on planning policy, environmental legislation and EIA requirements
• Coordinate stakeholder engagement, consultations and public examinations
• Build strong client relationships and support business development
• Manage project budgets, programmes and delivery risks
• Mentor junior colleagues and contribute to team growth

Key requirements

• Strong experience in energy, renewables or major infrastructure planning
• Solid understanding of DCOs, TCPA planning processes and environmental regulations
• Experience managing complex projects and multidisciplinary teams
• Excellent stakeholder management and client-facing skills
• Confidence to take ownership of projects and provide strategic planning advice
• Exposure to solar, wind, nuclear, hydrogen, utilities or other major infrastructure sectors (advantageous)
• Experience gained within a planning consultancy, developer or public sector organisation (considered)

• ambitious
• client-facing
• stakeholder management
• planning policy
• environmental regulations
• EIA requirements

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