If you're already operating at Senior Planner level (or newly at Associate Director) and feel ready for bigger projects, stronger backing, and a clearer pathway forward, this could be the move that accelerates your career.
Why this role stands out:
Lead city-shaping planning projects across metro and regional NSW, with real influence over outcomes
Work directly with respected, industry-leading Directors who stay hands-on and invest in your development
Enjoy autonomy with support - trusted to lead, backed when it matters
You'll be joining an established and growing statutory planning team that is deeply involved in transformational urban outcomes across NSW. The team is known for combining commercial pragmatism with strong planning outcomes - and for backing their people rather than micromanaging them.
Growth here hasn't come from churn or overpromising. It's come from long-term client relationships, repeat work, and planners who stay because they're supported and challenged.
You'll be based in either Sydney CBD or Parramatta, working closely with senior leaders who are visible, approachable, and genuinely invested in mentoring the next layer of planning leadership.
This is a hands-on Associate Director role, ideal if you enjoy leading from the front rather than sitting on the sidelines.
You'll:
Lead statutory (and selected strategic) planning projects from start to finish
Be the trusted point of contact for clients, providing clear, confident planning advice
Shape and review high-quality planning reports, submissions, and approvals pathways
Mentor junior planners - helping them grow while strengthening the team around you
Contribute to business development in a natural, relationship-driven way (not hard sales)
Manage projects and budgets with the backing of experienced Directors when needed
In short: you'll be trusted to run projects properly, with the support to do them well.
Rather than a long wish list, there are a few non-negotiables:
7-10 years' experience in urban planning, with strong exposure to statutory planning
Solid knowledge of the NSW planning system and confidence navigating approvals
Experience leading projects and managing client relationships
The ability to communicate clearly - with clients, councils, and internal teams
A degree in Planning (or a closely related discipline)
Australian citizenship or valid working rights
If you're already operating at a senior level and mentoring others or you're ready to, you'll feel at home here.
Clear career progression within a respected national firm
Flexible working arrangements that recognise you have a life outside work
Exposure to high-profile, city-shaping projects across NSW
Competitive salary package, bonus structure, and wellbeing initiatives
A supportive, professional culture where good planning is valued and recognised
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