Associate Director / Technical Director Large Ground Investigation Lead

WSP in the UK & Ireland; Manchester; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

WSP in the UK & Ireland is looking for a Large Ground Investigation Lead to play a pivotal role in delivering major and complex ground investigation programmes. You will shape strategy, drive growth, and maintain relationships with key clients while ensuring the highest quality and safety standards.

The ideal candidate will have a strong track record in leading large investigations, experience operating at a senior level, and a commitment to fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment.

Qualifications

• Proven track record in delivering large ground investigations.
• Experience as Project Director on complex, multidisciplinary projects.
• Ability to operate credibly at a senior level.

Responsibilities

• Set strategic direction for large-scale ground investigations.
• Work with sector leads to secure major opportunities.
• Ensure consistent delivery on major projects.

Skills

Winning large ground investigations

Project management on multidisciplinary programmes

Commercial awareness

Leadership skills

Team collaboration

Education

Chartered in a relevant discipline

Job description

Job Description

WSP is at the forefront of delivering some of the UK’s most complex and high‑profile ground investigation programmes. As our Large Ground Investigation Lead, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and growing this capability, leading the pursuit and delivery of major, technically challenging projects that support significant infrastructure, development and environmental programmes across the market.

Role Overview

As Large Ground Investigation Lead, you will define WSP’s approach to winning and delivering major ground investigation programmes. Acting as a visible leader across the business, you will combine technical excellence, commercial acumen and strategic thinking to grow our market presence and deliver industry‑leading outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Set the strategic direction for large‑scale ground investigation across WSP, driving growth, innovation and market differentiation.
• Work closely with sector leads and key client teams to identify, develop and secure major opportunities.
• Build and maintain a robust pipeline of high‑value opportunities, particularly where WSP can lead the design, management and delivery of ground investigation works.
• Provide leadership and consistency to how we approach large GI – from early engagement through to delivery.
• Act as the technical lead on major GI projects, setting direction, providing oversight and ensuring delivery against scope, programme and budget while managing risks early and throughout the project.
• Drive continuous improvements in how we deliver GI at scale, through innovation, digital solutions, data utilisation and best practice.
• Develop strong relationships with key clients, contractors and industry stakeholders, enhancing WSP’s profile and reputation in the market.
• Champion collaboration across disciplines to maximise opportunities where ground investigation forms part of a wider, integrated WSP solution.
• Lead by example in health, safety and wellbeing, creating a culture where people thrive and return home safely every day.
• Promote an inclusive, collaborative and high‑performing environment where people feel valued, empowered and motivated to succeed.
• Contribute actively to Ground & Water, Earth & Environment and wider business leadership initiatives, helping shape future strategy and performance.
• Identify and communicate risks, opportunities and emerging trends, driving proactive solutions across the business.
• Maintain a broad understanding of WSP’s Ground & Water and wider Earth & Environment services, recognising opportunities to create value through integrated technical solutions.
• Serve as an ambassador for WSP, representing the business with clients, industry bodies and the wider professional community.
• Support the development of future leaders and technical specialists, helping strengthen and grow our capability.

Qualifications

• Strong track record in winning, designing and delivering large ground investigations.
• Experience acting as Project Director on complex, multidisciplinary programmes.
• Good commercial awareness and experience contributing to bids.
• Credible with clients and able to operate at a senior level.
• Comfortable leading teams and working across disciplines.
• Chartered (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline.

Here at WSP we positively encourage applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of sex, race, disability, age, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, religion or belief, marital status, pregnancy or maternity/paternity. As a Disability Confident leader, we will interview all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria; please let us know if you require any workplace adjustments in support of your application.