Planning By Design Celebrates Another Win: Architecture MD of the Year 2025
26/09/2025 by Milana Semko
We’re delighted to share that Planning By Design has added another prestigious accolade to our growing collection of honours. Our Managing Director, Grant Singlehurst-Ward, has been recognised as Architecture MD of the Year 2025– a remarkable achievement that shines a spotlight on both his leadership and the continued success of our firm.
This award is part of the Managing Director of the Year Awards 2025 by SME News, which recognises outstanding managing directors across the UK who demonstrate exceptional leadership, creativity, and impact in their field. The award highlights those who have shown business growth, innovation, ethical leadership, and who have made a strong contribution to their sector, especially within small to medium‐sized enterprises.
A Journey of Leadership & Growth
Our Managing Director, Grant Singlehurst-Ward has grown Planning By Design into one of the UK and Ireland’s most recognised planning and architectural design consultancies.
What the Managing Director of the Year Awards Stand For
The Managing Director of the Year Awards by SME Newscelebrates MDs who go above and beyond in their industries. Winners are chosen for their exceptional leadership, particularly in the face of challenges, as well as their ability to deliver consistent business growth and long-term sustainability. The awards also recognise innovation and creativity, ethical and values-driven business practices, and the positive contributions made to both their sector and the wider community.
Grant’s win reflects all of these qualities. From driving strong business performance and fostering a culture of trust and excellence, to championing innovation and sustainability within the architectural design and planning sector, his leadership has set a benchmark for others to follow.
A Word from Our Managing Director Speaking on the award, Grant shared:
“I’m truly honoured to be named Architecture MD of the Year 2025. This recognition reflects the incredible work of our team here at Planning By Design, who continually go above and beyond for our clients. When I founded the business, I set out to create a company built on values, innovation, and client success — and I’m proud to see that vision becoming reality. This award is a milestone, but it’s also motivation to keep pushing boundaries and setting new standards in our industry.”
Looking ahead, the future is bright. With exciting government contracts, further AI innovations, and continued expansion on the horizon, Grant’s recognition as Architecture MD of the Year 2025 is a powerful milestone on our journey – but by no means the final chapter.
Thank You
This award belongs to our entire team, our clients, and everyone who has supported Planning By Design over the past four years. Together, we are shaping a future where outstanding design, planning expertise, and sustainability all come together to deliver something truly special.
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AuthorMilana SemcoMARKETING ASSISTANT
With over 15 years marketing experience Milana brings a huge amount of experience to the team. With heavy focus on our customers needs and interests, she helps Planning By Design to reach, engage and educate clients on all things planning and design in new and innovative ways.
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