Planning director jobs are frequently offered through local, regional or federal governments worldwide. In the United States, directors working for the government either work for city, county, state or federal agencies. Planners employed by a government agency are expected to work with each of the other agencies to create usable recreational, commercial and institutional projects designed for the optimal functioning of the communities each is employed to serve through planning. Many private sector employers, such as advertising agencies, financial management firms, architectural firms or engineering firms, also offer planning director jobs. Directors in both sectors may also work in areas relating to green or environmental planning.
Individuals hired to work in government planning director jobs are not only charged with the task of community development, but directors must also supervise other community planners, vendors, architects, designers, builders and others involved in the overall process. This is to assure that land is properly developed for optimal use and that the planning organization is on track for future development goals. Planning director jobs also require individual directors to report to other relevant boards, committees, administrators and political officials to share issues pertaining to the progress and goals of an overall development project. Positions like these are frequently high profile in that directors are often required to attend public meetings and political events, as well as speak to the public by way of the media with regards to development plans and progress.
Account planning director jobs within the private sector are designed to help businesses and the clients they serve move ahead at a preplanned pace to meet specific goals and interests. Among other duties, individuals hired to work in this capacity are frequently charged with helping a company’s clients create brand campaigns, media presentations and developing strategies for increased customer attraction and retention. Qualifications for account planning director jobs in the private sector may vary according to the business type, but most require at least a four-year college degree and several years of related experience.
Environmental planning director jobs are offered by both government and private sector employers. Individuals working in these positions frequently create, design and oversee plans for sustainable living communities, shared use projects and conservation projects. Among other things, environmental planning director jobs often involve supervising a team of developers and others to find ways of creating more eco-friendly housing, transportation, recreational sites and business opportunities within a specified area.
