Director of Environmental and Planning

About the Company

Jennings O’Donovan & Partners is a reputable multidisciplinary consulting engineering firm established in 1950, with headquarters in Sligo and an additional office in Dublin. The company employs over 100 professionals, including engineers, planners, and environmental scientists, and collaborates with local authorities, utilities, and international developers to deliver sustainable infrastructure and renewable energy projects. Jennings O'Donovan is a division of the RSK Group, a large environmental and technical services business promoting growth through diversification and a strong people-first culture focused on innovation, inclusion, and career development.

Position Summary

The Director of Environmental and Planning is a dual executive leadership role responsible for setting and steering the strategic direction and growth of the Environmental and Planning divisions. This role ensures seamless integration with other engineering disciplines and upholds the highest standards of technical excellence within the business unit. The role involves financial oversight, business expansion, regulatory engagement, and team leadership.

Key Responsibilities

• Formulate and implement long-term strategic plans for the Environmental and Planning divisions to maintain market leadership in Ireland and internationally.
• Identify growth sectors and secure major framework agreements with utilities and developers.
• Engage industry stakeholders and maintain strategic relationships with regulatory agencies such as An Comisiun Pleanala, Irish Planning Institute, and Engineers Ireland.
• Take comprehensive financial accountability for the unit, ensuring strong operational performance and precise forecasting.
• Manage business and technical risks, overseeing high-quality Environmental Impact Assessment Reports and planning strategies compliant with legal and technical requirements.
• Facilitate collaboration across company divisions to provide and receive technical support.
• Lead senior-level negotiations and maintain relationships with key accounts and strategic partners.
• Direct recruitment, retention, and career development initiatives for environmental and planning personnel.
• Provide authoritative leadership to foster mentorship, continuous learning, and professional growth.

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Minimum of 15 years of progressive leadership experience in environmental and planning consultancy.
• A Level 8 Honours Degree in Environmental Science, Planning, or related discipline; a Level 9 Master’s Degree is preferred.
• Chartered status with recognized professional institutions such as IPI, MRTPI, IEMA, or CIWEM.
• In-depth knowledge of Irish and/or UK planning systems, EU environmental legislation, and infrastructure project delivery.
• Proven track record managing large multidisciplinary teams and complex stakeholder environments.

Employee Benefits

• Professional membership fees and subscriptions paid by the company.
• Flexible working hours and hybrid working options.
• Strong commitment to Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for ongoing industry leadership.
• Competitive pension contributions and remuneration aligned with executive experience.

Additional Information

Jennings O’Donovan & Partners specialises in renewable energy, water infrastructure, and environmental consultancy across Ireland and internationally, working on significant projects such as wind farms in Sweden and energy storage and sporting venues in Ireland. The company values diversity and inclusion, striving to create a supportive, innovative, and collaborative working environment. They encourage applicants passionate about contributing to a sustainable and equitable future.