Technical Director/Director - Development Planning

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

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid working policy

Wellbeing support programs

Flexible working arrangements

Employee resource groups for inclusivity

Job summary

A leading engineering consultancy in Manchester is seeking a Technical Director to oversee transport planning and urban design projects. This role involves identifying new business opportunities, liaising with public and private sector clients, and providing technical advice throughout planning processes. The ideal candidate will have a degree in transport planning or civil engineering, chartered status, and a proven track record in winning projects. The position offers a hybrid working policy and supports professional growth through training and mentorship.

Qualifications

• Degree level qualification in transport planning or civil engineering.
• Chartered status required.
• Proven track record in identifying and delivering new business opportunities.

Responsibilities

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities for the Development team.
• Liaise with clients and stakeholders to build relationships.
• Provide technical advice to clients through planning and design.

Skills

Transport planning expertise

Civil engineering knowledge

Leadership skills

Interpersonal skills

Commercial awareness

Education

Degree in transport planning or civil engineering

Chartered status

Job description

About the Role

Technical Director/Director – Development team. You will support the Development team in transport planning, civil infrastructure and urban design on development and master‑planning projects, growing the team’s presence in Manchester and nationally.

Key Responsibilities

• Identifying and pursuing new business opportunities, leveraging a network of clients, co‑professionals and colleagues to help win work and increase market share for the Development team.
• Liaising with the Regional Director for Development South and local office lead in setting and agreeing appropriate growth targets and plans.
• Liaising with public/private sector clients and key stakeholders, such as local planning authorities, to build trusted relationships.
• Providing technical advice to clients and supporting them through the planning and design process.
• Exhibiting and demonstrating behaviours and attitudes in accordance with WSP’s core values.
• Working closely with colleagues to ensure coordination across the Development team and sharing of market intelligence, best practice and innovation.
• Leading and supporting bids, including reviewing and authorising submissions, demonstrating commercial and technical added value.
• Acting as Project Director for major projects and strategically important commissions.
• Supporting all aspects associated with H&S / Corporate Responsibility and ensuring the team complies with SHEQ (Safety, Health, Environment and Quality).

Qualifications

• Degree level qualification in transport planning or civil engineering.
• Chartered status.
• Commercial and strategic capability with a demonstrable track record in identifying and subsequently delivering new business opportunities.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with established leadership and management capabilities and experience.
• Proven track record of work winning.
• A broad range of relevant project experience.

Benefits

Work‑life balance

Hybrid working policy offers flexibility to work from home two days a week, with opportunities to collaborate in modern offices across the UK.

Inclusivity & Belonging

Welcoming applicants with varied backgrounds, encouraging people to bring their whole selves to work, celebrating integrity and respecting each other. Employee resource groups promote a culture of inclusion and belonging.

Health & Wellbeing

Thrive programme supports health and wellbeing. Virtual GP service gives access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP. Workplace adjustments are available. Gymflex scheme offers up to 40% off annual gym memberships, and a comprehensive menopause support package.

Flex your time

“WSP My Hour” allows taking one hour each day for personal activities with flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day. Part‑time and flexible working arrangements, purchase of additional leave, and use of bank holiday entitlement are also available.

Your development

Supportive environment invests in growth through training, mentoring, and Chartership.

EEO Statement: 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.