Associate Director, Planning Policy

About the Role

In this role you will manage key planning policy projects, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, and engage directly with clients, local authorities and other stakeholders to secure successful planning outcomes. You will also provide strategic advice, represent the organisation at conferences and networking events, and ensure projects are delivered on budget and on schedule. • Lead and manage key planning policy projects, including local authority policy and strategy development, local plans, evidence studies, and infrastructure strategies. • Provide strategic planning advice to clients and internal teams, and represent AECOM in stakeholder engagements and networking events. • Oversee project delivery to ensure on‑time, on‑budget completion and coordinate multidisciplinary teams. • Ensure quality assurance, health and safety compliance, and review deliverables from the planning policy team. • Drive business development by nurturing client relationships and leading commercial tender preparation. • Provide line management, mentorship, and development for junior planning staff. • Maintain strong client and local authority relationships and a proven track record of winning work.

Key Responsibilities

• ▸policy development
• ▸strategic advice
• ▸project delivery
• ▸quality assurance
• ▸business development
• ▸team management

What You Bring

We are seeking an Associate Director to join our leadership team as planning policy work expands rapidly. The role calls for a strategic thinker with proven expertise in planning policy, strategy and project management, who can drive high‑quality outcomes and support business growth. The position can be based in any of our UK offices—including London Aldgate, Basingstoke, Bristol, Birmingham, Cambridge, Chesterfield, Leeds, Manchester, Nottingham, or Plymouth—and AECOM fully supports hybrid working. It is available on a full‑time or part‑time basis to suit individual circumstances. The ideal candidate brings significant experience leading planning policy and strategy in consultancy or public‑sector settings, strong client‑focused interpersonal skills, and an existing network of relationships with clients and authorities. A degree in Town Planning (or related) and membership of the RTPI—or an equivalent professional body—is required. AECOM celebrates neurodiversity and welcomes applications from all backgrounds and abilities. Reasonable accommodations are available for candidates with disabilities throughout the recruitment process. • Demonstrate significant experience in planning policy and strategy within consultancy or public‑sector environments. • Produce high‑quality technical reports, possess excellent communication skills, and work independently under pressure. • Hold a degree in Town Planning (or related) and RTPI membership (or equivalent professional body).

Requirements

• ▸planning policy
• ▸strategy
• ▸town planning
• ▸rtpi membership
• ▸project management
• ▸client relationships

Benefits

Joining AECOM offers clear pathways for career progression within a culture that actively supports learning and development. We value collaboration, equity and diversity, and provide a supportive environment where you can bring your whole self to work. Employees benefit from hybrid work options, competitive compensation, comprehensive wellbeing programs, and access to industry‑leading technology. Our inclusive, equal‑opportunity environment encourages entrepreneurial spirit and supports personal growth.

Work Environment

Hybrid