Associate Planning Director
8 days ago
Leeds
Job title: Associate Planning Director Salary: Negiotable Locatin: London Are you a strategic thinker and people-leader passionate about insight-led planning? A dynamic, independent brand strategy and communications consultancy based in London is seeking an experienced Associate Planning Director to join their senior leadership team. This is a unique opportunity to shape brand strategy across a portfolio of high-profile clients, mentor a growing planning team, and have a tangible impact on the future of the business. As Associate Planning Director, you will: * Lead and develop strategic thinking across client engagements, from early insight through to creative briefing and campaign evaluation * Build trusted relationships with senior client stakeholders, translating business challenges into powerful strategic opportunity * Manage and inspire a team of planners and strategists, fostering a culture of curiosity, rigour and creativity * Champion best-in-class planning practice internally and externally, elevating the quality of work and the impact of strategic thinking across the business * Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams including Creative, Account Management and Data to deliver joined-up solutions You will be instrumental in setting the strategic agenda for client work and play a key role in shaping the consultancy’s long-term growth. We’re looking for someone with: * A minimum of 7–10 years’ experience in strategic planning or a related discipline within advertising, brand consultancy, UX, or communications * A proven track record of developing high-impact strategic frameworks and guiding creative work that drives business results * Strong leadership experience, with a natural ability to coach and mentor mid-level planners * Excellent client-facing skills — confident presenting to senior stakeholders and shaping long-term client partnerships * A curious, commercially astute mindset with a deep understanding of cultural, consumer and category trends * Competitive salary and performance-linked bonus * Hybrid working model with a vibrant central London office * Opportunity to influence senior leadership decisions and people strategy * Professional development support and clear progression path * A culture that values creativity, rigour and collaboration If you are ready to take the next step in your career as a strategic leader with impact, please submit your CV and a brief cover note outlining why you’re a great fit for this opportunity. Applications and enquiries handled by external recruitment partner.