Habitats Regulations Service Lead

WSP in the UK & Ireland; Bristol; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

WSP in the UK & Ireland is seeking an experienced Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRA) professional to drive their HRA capability within the UK Nature Services business. This key leadership role entails technical direction, developing standards, as well as mentoring team members.

The successful candidate will need extensive HRA experience, knowledge of UK Habitats Regulations, and a background in ecology. This position offers an opportunity to influence significant work in nature-led solutions.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in HRA at plan and project levels.
• Strong knowledge of UK Habitats Regulations and case law.
• Proven experience leading projects and mentoring others.

Responsibilities

• Act as technical authority for HRA across WSP UK.
• Lead delivery and review of complex HRAs.
• Develop standards, tools, and QA frameworks.
• Support strategic growth, bids, and client engagement.

Skills

HRA expertise

Knowledge of UK Habitats Regulations

Project leadership

Mentoring and training

Education

Background in ecology or related discipline

Job description

Job Description

At WSP, we’re shaping a more sustainable future. We’re looking for an experienced Habitats Regulation Assessment (HRA) professional to lead and grow our HRA capability across the UK Nature Services business. This is a key leadership role, providing technical direction, consistency, and quality across both project-level and plan-level HRAs, while supporting the development of people, standards, and services.

What You’ll Be Doing

• Acting as technical authority for HRA across WSP UK
• Leading delivery and review of complex HRAs
• Developing standards, tools, and QA frameworks
• Building capability through training and mentoring
• Supporting strategic growth, bids, and client engagement

What We’re Looking For

• Extensive experience in HRA (plan and project level)
• Strong knowledge of UK Habitats Regulations and case law
• Experience leading projects and supporting others
• Background in ecology or a related discipline

This is an opportunity to influence nationally significant work, contribute to technical excellence, and help strengthen WSP’s position as a leader in nature-led solutions.