Associate Director - Infrastructure in Birmingham

Job Description

Job Title: Associate Director - Infrastructure \n\nLocation: Birmingham\n\nPenguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading global consultancy in their search for an experienced Associate Director to join their Infrastructure Consenting team in Birmingham.\n\nThe Opportunity\n\nOur client, Arup, partners with clients across the transport, energy, and water sectors to plan, design, consent, and deliver major infrastructure projects. They are now seeking an Associate Director to play a pivotal role in growing their consenting capability and leading high-profile, complex projects across the UK.\n\nThis is an excellent opportunity to take a leadership position within a highly respected organisation, working on some of the most exciting infrastructure developments while shaping strategy, building client relationships, and mentoring teams.\n\nThe Role\n\nAs Associate Director, you will:\n\nLead the development and growth of the infrastructure consenting business\nBuild and maintain strong client relationships, identifying new opportunities and securing repeat work\nLead multidisciplinary teams in bidding for and delivering projects\nProvide strategic direction, oversee project delivery, and ensure commercial success\nUndertake quality assurance and ensure high standards across all outputs\nCollaborate across internal teams to maximise integrated project delivery\nSupport the development and mentoring of team members within the planning and consenting function\nRaise the company's profile through marketing, thought leadership, and industry engagementAbout You\n\nYou will be a driven and experienced professional with a strong track record in infrastructure planning and consenting. You should bring:\n\nIn-depth knowledge of UK infrastructure consenting legislation, including Development Consent Orders (DCOs) and relevant sector legislation (e.g.

Transport and Works Act, Electricity Act)\nDemonstrable experience in drafting consenting strategies, planning reports, and managing consent applications\nProven ability to lead multidisciplinary teams across bids and project delivery\nStrong commercial awareness, including budget management, programme delivery, and client liaison\nA successful track record of winning and delivering projects in transport, energy, or water sectors\nExcellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder engagement skills\nDegree-level education and MRTPI (Member of the Royal Town Planning Institute) accreditationWhy Apply?\n\nWork on nationally significant and impactful infrastructure projects\nJoin a collaborative and forward-thinking environment that values individuality and innovation\nTake a leadership role with real influence over business growth and strategy\nEnjoy a strong commitment to professional development and career progression\nContribute to meaningful projects that benefit communities and the environmentInterested?\n \n The hiring manager is looking to meet with suitable candidates ASAP so if you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones on (phone number removed) or (url removed)