Associate Director Planner

Description

• Provide leadership on highly visible initiatives, representing AtkinsRéalis at industry forums and professional panels.
• Lead planning services for strategic infrastructure and renewable energy projects, ensuring project programs are effectively managed.
• Improve consenting strategy and reduce program risk for clients.
• Anticipate business and regulatory developments (planning law, energy policy, marine consenting) and propose process/service improvements.
• Maintain up to date knowledge of planning and energy policies and best practices in Ireland.
• Provide strategic planning advice to clients and internal teams across multiple sectors.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams and engage with stakeholders to deliver successful project outcomes.
• Build and maintain strong relationships, engaging effectively with public and private sector clients, local authorities, developers, and community stakeholders.
• Mentor and develop Junior Planners and early-career professionals—setting high standards, providing structured feedback, and supporting chartership pathways.
• Act as a primary client liaison for planning requirements, ensuring that projects meet the client’s requirements and timelines as well as any regulatory requirements.
• Drive business growth in the energy / renewables / rail markets/ transport /port developments via. preparing competitive bids and developing strong client relationships.
• Lead Part 10 applications and manage Marine Area Consents (MAC) and Marine Usage Licenses for marine projects.
• Lead the preparation, coordination, and review of complex planning applications and EIARs.
• Proactively identify and pursue new business opportunities across the planning and development sector.
• Provide strategic direction and expert planning guidance on complex planning matters.
• Advocate for excellence, ensuring compliance with national and regional planning legislation, guidelines, and procedures.
• Supervise and mentor junior planners, supporting their technical and professional development.

Requirements

• Experience contributing to the preparation of proposals and tenders, securing major infrastructure and transportation projects.
• A full Irish driving license.
• Excellent working knowledge of Irelands planning legislation and regulatory requirements.
• Strong business development acumen: pipeline creation, bid leadership, and client relationship management.
• Chartered Member of the Irish Planning Institute (IPI).
• Experience in presenting evidence at An Coimisiún Pleanála oral hearings and planning evidence in court.
• Advanced leadership, interpersonal, and communication skills; able to solve unique and complex problems with conceptual and innovative thinking.
• Proven experience in Strategic Development Masterplan, Planning and Sustainable Development.
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, communication, and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects and priorities.
• Excellent working knowledge of Irish planning legislation and regulatory requirements, including Marine Area Consents and Marine Usage Licenses.

Benefits

Training + Development

Interview process

Visa Sponsorship

Security clearance