Habitats Regulations Service Lead

WSP in the UK & Ireland; Leeds; 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 lead and grow our HRA capability. This key leadership role involves providing technical direction and consistency across both project-level and plan-level HRAs.

The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in HRA, strong knowledge of UK Habitats Regulations, and a background in ecology. You will influence nationally significant work and contribute to WSP’s leadership in nature-led solutions.

Qualifications

• Extensive experience in HRA at both plan and project level.
• Strong understanding of UK Habitats Regulations and relevant case law.
• Experience in project leadership and mentoring.

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 and client engagement.

Skills

Extensive experience in HRA

Strong knowledge of UK Habitats Regulations

Experience leading projects

Background in ecology or a 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.