Associate Director - Town Planning

Company Overview

AECOM is a leading global infrastructure consulting firm dedicated to creating a better world by improving transportation, utilities, community infrastructure, and skylines. The company serves public and private clients worldwide, delivering complex projects that support sustainable development and thriving communities. With a team of over 50,000 multidisciplinary professionals, AECOM emphasizes a culture of innovation, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility.

Job Summary

Due to growing infrastructure planning successes and expanding opportunities, AECOM seeks an Associate Director to join and help lead the Town Planning team in Ireland, based in Cork or Dublin with hybrid working flexibility. This role involves contributing to high-profile, multidisciplinary projects locally and internationally, focusing on infrastructure sectors such as rail, water, transport, energy, and data centers. Candidates will lead major planning applications, foster team growth, and collaborate with clients to deliver strategic planning solutions that support sustainable infrastructure.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and expand the planning consents service, overseeing the team’s outputs and quality.
• Provide strategic planning advice to clients and internal stakeholders on major development applications in Ireland.
• Manage complex projects to ensure delivery within budget and timelines.
• Coordinate multidisciplinary teams to achieve seamless execution of projects.
• Maintain high standards of quality assurance and enforce health and safety guidelines.
• Contribute to business development strategies by nurturing client relationships and preparing commercial tenders to win new work.

Experience and Skills Required

• Extensive experience leading planning consent applications for large infrastructure projects in Ireland, ideally in energy, transport, or rail sectors.
• Experience as an expert witness is advantageous.
• Strong client relationship skills and a collaborative working style.
• Established contacts with clients and local authorities.
• Proven ability to win work and develop client connections.
• Excellent written communication skills with capability to produce clear, concise documentation.
• Ability to work independently, manage pressure, and uphold quality standards.

Qualifications

• A degree in Town Planning or a related field.
• Membership of the Irish Planning Institute, Chartered Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI), or equivalent professional accreditation.

Work Environment & Culture

AECOM promotes an inclusive, supportive, and flexible work culture encouraging employees to thrive by bringing their authentic selves. The company offers a hybrid working model and a comprehensive benefits package. New employees must attend an in-person onboarding day at an AECOM office. AECOM is committed to equal opportunity employment and welcomes applicants with disabilities under specific support schemes.

Additional Information

Applicants interested in learning more about the role or company culture may contact the recruiter. AECOM is recognized for its leadership in environmental and engineering consultancy and is ranked among the top planning consultancies in Ireland and the UK.