Associate Director / Technical Director – Planning Lead

Overview

Join WSP in Ireland as an Associate Director / Technical Director leading our planning team to deliver major projects across various sectors including infrastructure, energy, residential, commercial, and public sector developments. This role offers the chance to influence key developments while working with a team of highly skilled consenting experts serving a wide portfolio of clients.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and shape a planning team, developing and expanding the service offerings.
• Provide leadership on consenting inputs for major projects.
• Manage the delivery of planning services across a diverse range of projects.
• Offer strong technical planning guidance and manage clients’ consenting needs, including site appraisals and feasibility assessments.
• Coordinate preparation and submission of consent applications, including those under Planning and Development Acts.
• Serve as Project Director for Earth and Environment business-led projects in Ireland.
• Lead complex negotiations with statutory bodies and stakeholders on clients’ behalf.
• Act as Planning Expert Witness at hearings, examinations, and inquiries.
• Support business development efforts aligned with company growth strategy.
• Provide mentorship and development support to junior planners.
• Prepare and coordinate planning applications and Environmental Impact Assessment Reports in collaboration with the EIA team.
• Engage proactively with local authorities, An Bord Pleanála, and key stakeholders.
• Facilitate delivery of large-scale infrastructure and renewable energy projects.
• Contribute to bid preparation, client relationship management, and ensure compliance with Irish planning legislation and policy.

Candidate Profile

• Degree in Town Planning or related discipline.
• Chartered or progressing towards chartership with the Irish Planning Institute or RTPI.
• Extensive professional experience and understanding of the Irish planning system, legislation, and consenting procedures.
• Proven experience managing planning applications and coordinating EIARs.
• Strong report writing, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to manage multiple projects effectively and meet tight deadlines.
• Commercial awareness and client-centered approach.
• Experience in team management and growth.

Desirable Experience

• Experience working on infrastructure sectors such as transport, energy, and utilities or major development projects.
• Familiarity with Appropriate Assessment (AA) and environmental planning processes.
• History of successful project delivery through Irish planning authorities.

Work Environment and Culture

WSP promotes work-life balance with hybrid work policies allowing two days remote per week. We foster an inclusive culture encouraging authenticity and diversity, supporting wellbeing through services like virtual GP, gym membership discounts, menopause support, and flexible working arrangements. The