Strategic Growth Lead, Freshwater Ecology

WSP in the UK & Ireland; Newcastle upon Tyne; On-site; GBP 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Leadership development

Chartership support

Professional memberships

Career progression

Collaborative culture

Job summary

WSP in the UK & Ireland is seeking an experienced Freshwater Ecology Growth Lead to steer the growth, capability and delivery performance of the freshwater ecology team. This role combines ecological expertise with commercial insight to expand our presence across infrastructure, water, transport, energy and environmental programmes.

You will shape market approach, foster strong client relationships and mentor the next generation of freshwater ecologists while maintaining technical excellence

Qualifications

• Experience leading teams through growth, change or transformation.
• Significant experience in freshwater ecology and the UK environmental sector.
• Experience on major infrastructure projects and complex consenting environments.
• Strong knowledge of UK freshwater ecology legislation, policy and best practice.
• Proven ability to develop client relationships and identify new business opportunities.
• Experience supporting bids, frameworks or strategic project growth.
• Excellent communication, influencing and stakeholder management skills.
• Collaborative leadership style with ability to inspire and develop teams.

Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver a clear growth strategy for freshwater ecology aligned with priorities.
• Identify market opportunities, emerging trends and future client needs.
• Build a strong pipeline across infrastructure, water, energy and transport.
• Support strategic bids, framework opportunities and major pursuits.
• Lead client discussions to shape practical, proportionate solutions.
• Develop new service offerings and contribute to thought leadership.
• Provide trusted advisory relationships with key clients and stakeholders.
• Lead recruitment, capability development and national networks.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic growth

Stakeholder management

Client relations

Ecology expertise

Education

Chartered membership (CIEEM/CIWEM)

Job description

WSP in the UK & Ireland is seeking an experienced Freshwater Ecology Growth Lead to steer the growth, capability and delivery performance of the freshwater ecology team. This role combines ecological expertise with commercial insight to expand our presence across infrastructure, water, transport, energy and environmental programmes.

You will shape market approach, foster strong client relationships and mentor the next generation of freshwater ecologists while maintaining technical excellence