Our client is seeking an ambitious Associate Director - Transport Planning to join its highways and transport team on a permanent basis. Based in London or Southampton, the role involves leading transport planning, active travel and infrastructure projects while supporting business development and delivering high-quality solutions for public and private sector clients across London and the South of England. Key Responsibilities: Lead transport planning inputs for local, regional and nationally significant infrastructure and development projects Manage project delivery, quality, programme, budgets and financial performance Generate new business opportunities and develop relationships with public and private sector clients Oversee the preparation and delivery of transport studies, assessments and planning submissions Provide client-facing project and design management, including progress reporting and attendance at meetings Instruct, supervise and review work completed by internal teams and external sub-consultants Support the delivery of projects for property, government, defence and energy sector clients Provide leadership, mentoring and technical guidance to colleagues within the transport planning team Job Requirements: Significant experience in transport planning and the delivery of transport studies or schemes Experience working on development projects and major National Highways or county council-led projects Strong understanding of national planning procedures and transport planning standards Experience in project management, commercial management and client relationship development Ability to lead multidisciplinary teams and coordinate transport planning inputs effectively Strong business development skills, supported by an established professional network Degree or Master's qualification in a relevant subject, such as civil engineering or transport planning Chartered status or membership of a relevant professional body, such as CILT, ICE or CIHT, is desirable Benefits: Opportunity to lead high-profile highways, transport planning and infrastructure projects Permanent position within a collaborative and multidisciplinary transport team Professional development, mentoring and opportunities to support business growth Exposure to public and private sector projects across a range of industries Supportive working environment with reasonable adjustments available throughout the recruitment process and employment If you are an experienced transport planning professional ready to take the next step in your highways career, apply now to join our client's London or Southampton-based team