Associate Director / Technical Director – Planning Lead

Overview

Join WSP, a leading global consultancy recognized for excellence in town planning across the UK and Ireland. Our team is celebrated for bringing together diverse disciplines to deliver exceptional results, especially in the energy, renewables, nuclear, net zero, water, rail, transport, and aviation sectors. Based in Naas, Ireland, you will join a growing team supporting major infrastructure and nationally significant projects with renowned clients including Eirgrid, ESB, and TII.

Role Summary

We are seeking a motivated and experienced Associate Director / Technical Director to lead and develop our town planning team in Ireland. This role involves guiding planning services delivery, coordinating consents for major projects, and ensuring compliance with Irish planning legislation. You will collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, engage with clients and statutory authorities, and mentor junior planners while contributing to business development initiatives.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, develop, and grow the planning team and service offerings strategically.
• Drive consenting inputs and project delivery for a diverse portfolio, including major infrastructure and renewable energy projects.
• Provide expert technical advice and manage clients' consenting requirements through site appraisals and feasibility assessments.
• Oversee preparation and submission of planning consent applications, including those under the Planning and Development Acts.
• Act as Project Director for projects in the Earth and Environment business.
• Conduct complex negotiations with regulatory bodies and stakeholders on clients' behalf.
• Serve as Planning Expert Witness at examinations, hearings, or inquiries.
• Support new business acquisition aligned with WSP's growth strategy.
• Manage project finances and demonstrate consultancy project management expertise.
• Mentor junior staff and encourage their professional development.
• Coordinate planning applications and Environmental Impact Assessment Reports in collaboration with the EIA team.
• Engage proactively with local authorities, An Bord Pleanála, and other stakeholders.
• Ensure Irish planning legislation and policies are adhered to across projects.
• Contribute to business development, bids, and maintain client relationships.

Candidate Profile

• Degree in Town Planning or related field.
• Chartered Member or working towards membership of Irish Planning Institute (IPI) or Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI).
• Extensive professional experience in the Irish planning market.
• In-depth knowledge of Irish planning systems, legislation, and consenting processes.
• Proven capability managing planning applications and coordinating EIARs.
• Strong report writing, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Ability to juggle multiple projects and meet tight deadlines.
• Commercially aware with a client-focused mindset.
• Experience in managing and expanding a planning team.

Desirable Experience

• Background in infrastructure, transport, energy, or major development projects.
• Familiarity with Appropriate Assessment (AA) and environmental planning methods.
• Successfully delivered projects through Irish planning authorities.

Additional Information

Work-Life Balance: Flexible hybrid working with two days from home weekly, supporting family and personal time.

Inclusivity & Belonging: Commitment to diversity and inclusion, encouraging authentic expression and respect within our workforce.

Health & Wellbeing: Access to health programs including virtual GP service, gym membership discounts, menopause support, and workplace adjustments.

Flexibility: Daily personalized time allocation, part-time and flexible working options, additional leave purchasing, and adjustable bank holiday arrangements.

Development: Supportive environment for training, mentoring, and achieving professional chartership.

WSP champions equal opportunity employment embracing candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, marital or parental status. Reasonable accommodations are provided for applicants with disabilities.