Lead Environmental Planner

We are seeking a highly experienced and proactive Planner to join our expanding Environment & Planning Division in Dublin / Castlebar / Galway / Limerick / Sligo (location flexible with hybrid working options). This is a senior-level opportunity for a chartered planning professional to lead complex projects, mentor junior staff, and play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of our planning services. As a Lead Planner, you will oversee the delivery of high-quality planning outputs across a diverse portfolio, while supporting the development of our planning team and collaborating closely with project managers, engineers, and environmental specialists. In return, we offer a competitive remuneration package and strong career development prospects within a dynamic, multi-disciplinary consultancy. Key Responsibilities: * Lead the preparation, coordination, and review of complex planning applications and EIARs * Provide strategic planning advice to clients and internal teams across multiple sectors * Supervise and mentor junior planners, supporting their technical and professional development * Collaborate with project managers to ensure planning deliverables align with project timelines and objectives * Prepare and review planning reports and applications. * Review reports, figures, and drawings prepared by team members across planning, engineering, and environmental disciplines. * Validate and sign off on planning application content, including forms, notices, and drawings. * Prepare and review EIAR chapters and Planning & Environmental Consideration Reports (PECRs). * Provide strategic planning leadership and direction on sectoral and project-specific planning matters. * Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of planning legislation, policy, and guidance, offering solution-based planning risk management. * Liaise with clients (internal and external) to deliver high-quality planning advice, reports, and outputs. * Collaborate with legal teams to support documentation for planning court proceedings, including judicial reviews. * Represent clients in meetings with planning authorities and An Bord Pleanála, including pre-application consultations. * Engage with stakeholders such as the public, statutory consultees, and government departments (e.g., NPWS, IFI, TII). * Coordinate with peer reviewers, legal teams, and clients to finalise deliverables to the required standard. * Attend Oral Hearings as an Expert Witness and participate in public consultation events. * Contribute to tender responses, including pricing and technical input. * Understand and manage project timelines and objectives. * Lead project teams to ensure timely and budget-conscious delivery. * Mentor and support junior planning staff. * Participate in business development activities to promote our planning services. * Maintain and grow client relationships. * Stay current with legislative changes, case law, and industry innovations. * Ensure compliance with and contribute to the development of quality assurance procedures. Required Skills & Experience: * Minimum of 10 years’ experience in a planning role, with a strong track record of leading projects * Holds either a Corporate Membership of the IPI or Chartered Membership of the RTPI. * Proven leadership and mentoring experience within a multidisciplinary environment * In-depth knowledge of Irish planning legislation, policy, and procedures * Demonstrated ability to manage complex planning processes and deliver high-quality outputs * Experience in EIAR preparation and planning risk management