Associate - Environmental Planning in EC1

Job Description

Job Title: Associate - Environmental Planning \n\nLocation: London\n\nPenguin Recruitment is delighted to be supporting a leading independent consultancy with a strong reputation for delivering some of the UK's most high-profile and complex development projects.\n\nThis employee-owned business is recognised for providing clear, commercially focused and honest advice across planning, environmental assessment and development economics. Their integrated approach brings together planning expertise with specialist capability in Socio-Economic Assessment, Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA), and Development Economics.\n\nThis is an exciting opportunity for an Associate - Environmental Planning to join a growing Environmental Planning team, working on a diverse portfolio of projects including large-scale regeneration, infrastructure, residential, industrial & logistics, and commercial developments.\n\nThe Role\n\nThe successful candidate will take a leading role in the delivery of environmental planning and EIA projects, ensuring high technical standards, commercial awareness, and strong stakeholder engagement throughout.\n\nThis position combines project leadership, client advisory responsibilities, and team management, including overseeing budgets, managing resources, preparing bids, and mentoring junior colleagues.\n\nYou will work collaboratively across disciplines while also taking ownership of project delivery, client relationships, and strategic environmental planning outputs.\n\nActing as a trusted advisor, you will represent clients and the consultancy in meetings, consultations, and stakeholder forums, while also contributing to business development and the continued growth of the environmental planning offer.\n\nKey Responsibilities\n\nLead the preparation and delivery of high-quality environmental planning and EIA advice with minimal senior oversight\nManage multiple projects of varying scale and complexity, independently leading smaller schemes and coordinating larger multidisciplinary teams\nOversee project finances including budgets, WIP, invoicing, and management\nPrepare proposals, bids, and tenders, ensuring robust commercial planning and programme control\nDevelop and deliver EIA strategies, screening and scoping reports, and full environmental assessments\nProduce clear, high-quality technical reports and strategic advice, considering project risks and wider implications\nPlan and lead client meetings, stakeholder engagements, and project workshops\nAct as the main point of contact for clients, planning authorities, and stakeholders, providing confident and professional advice\nReview and coordinate EIA inputs across disciplines to ensure consistency and quality\nContribute to business development through networking, client engagement, marketing activities, and securing new work\nSupport team development through mentoring, technical review, and knowledge sharing\nPlay an active role in maintaining and enhancing internal quality standards and company cultureAbout You\n\nDegree (or higher) in a relevant environmental, planning or related discipline\nIdeally IEMA Registered EIA Practitioner and/or Chartered Environmentalist (CEnv)\nStrong understanding of EIA regulations, planning policy, and relevant case law, with practical application experience\nProven experience managing EIA projects and multidisciplinary teams\nStrong commercial awareness, including budgeting, WIP management, invoicing, and control\nExcellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and confidently\nStrong analytical skills, attention to detail, and sound professional judgement\nComfortable working independently while contributing effectively to team collaboration\nStrong stakeholder engagement skills with experience working alongside clients, consultants, and public sector bodies\nProficient in Microsoft Office and relevant technical tools; experience using AI tools in project delivery is beneficial\nDemonstrates integrity, professionalism, and a proactive approach to problem solving and deliveryWhat's on Offer\n\nCompetitive salary and discretionary bonus scheme\n28 days annual leave plus bank holidays\nPension scheme\nLife assurance and income protection\nEmployee Assistance Programme\nStructured training and professional development supportUpon completion of probation:\n\nPrivate medical insurance (including pre-existing conditions)\nHealth cash plan\nAccess to private GP services\nProfessional membership fees covered\nInterest-free season ticket loan\nCycle-to-work scheme\nNursery scheme\n\nInterested?\n\nThe hiring manager is looking to meet suitable candidates ASAP. If you meet the above criteria, please contact Josh Jones on (phone number removed) or email (url removed)