About us
MKO is Ireland’s largest Ecology and Environmental consultancy.
Our team of 200+ experienced professionals work across the ecology, planning, environmental, and related fields. We deliver challenging and complex projects for our clients and have an unrivalled track record of success. We add real value to our client’s projects through our multi-disciplinary expertise and a broad range of nationwide experience.
Our success and growth rests entirely on the knowledge, skills, ambition and integrity of our people, and we value these qualities most highly. We are forward-thinking and work with a can-do attitude, which nurtures people, ideas and opportunities to help maximise potential.
Through our work, we aim to leave a legacy we can all be proud of.
Job Description
We are seeking a senior-level Town and Regional Planner to lead our Dublin planning office, with a key focus on recruiting, developing, and managing a high-performing team. This role combines strategic leadership, project oversight, and business development, and is critical to expanding MKO’s presence and influence in the Dublin and Eastern region.
What you’ll be doing
Leadership & Management
- Lead and manage the Dublin planning office and multidisciplinary team.
- Provide strategic direction for project delivery, team development, and office operations.
- Recruit, mentor, and lead a high-performing planning team, supporting both project delivery and the long-term growth of the Dublin office.
Project Delivery
- Oversee the preparation, coordination, and delivery of planning applications, development plans, masterplans, and planning policy reports.
- Ensure projects meet all planning and regulatory standards, timelines, and client expectations.
Client & Stakeholder Engagement
- Build and maintain strong relationships with public and private sector clients, local authorities, developers, and community stakeholders.
- Represent the company at public consultations, hearings, and professional forums.
Business Development
- Identify and pursue new business opportunities within the planning and development sector.
- Lead or contribute to the preparation of proposals and tenders to secure major urban development and infrastructure projects.
Compliance & Best Practice
- Ensure compliance with national and regional planning legislation, guidelines, and procedures.
- Champion innovative and sustainable approaches to planning and urban development.
Why join us
- Lead the growth of a nationally respected planning consultancy in a key strategic location.
- Deliver high-impact projects shaping the future of Dublin and the wider Eastern region – including residential, commercial, and infrastructure developments.
- Competitive salary and benefits package.
- Ongoing opportunities for professional development and influence within the planning community.
- Supportive, inclusive, and forward-thinking work culture.
- Flexible working arrangements considered, with a primary base in the Dublin office.
About you
You are an experienced and strategic planner with a passion for shaping sustainable communities and leading high-performing teams. Your expertise in the Irish planning system, combined with strong leadership and client engagement skills, makes you ideally suited for this pivotal role.
You have:
- A degree (and ideally a Master’s) in Town Planning, Urban and Regional Planning, or a related field.
- Chartered Membership of the Irish Planning Institute (IPI) or equivalent professional body.
- A minimum of 7 years’ post-qualification experience, including experience in a leadership or senior management role.
- A proven track record in delivering complex planning applications and leading project teams.
- In-depth knowledge of the Irish planning system, legislation, and policy landscape.
- Strong client-facing, stakeholder engagement, and negotiation skills.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Experience managing budgets and resources in a consultancy or public sector environment.
Desirable Attributes
- Visionary leadership with a collaborative and inclusive management style.
- Strong commercial awareness and a track record in business development.
- A passion for sustainable urban development and innovative planning solutions.
- Experience in regional development, transport planning, or environmental assessment is a plus.
Candidates interested in the available position should apply with an up-to-date curriculum vitae and cover letter.
