Principal Consultant

Around the world, SYSTRA’s specialists plan, design, integrate, test, commission, project manage and deliver mass transit and mobility solutions that are relied on by more than 50 million people every day. For more than 60 years, the Group has been committed to helping cities and regions contribute to their development by creating, improving and modernising their transport infrastructure with sustainability, accessibility and innovation at the heart of our designs.

SYSTRA Ltd is a leading consultancy firm, delivering world-class solutions in transport and infrastructure. With a commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth, we empower communities and businesses to thrive in an ever-evolving world. We are seeking an experienced and driven Principal Consultant with a focus on Development Planning to join our team in Leeds, Newcastle Upon Tyne, or Manchester. This is an exceptional opportunity to take the lead on transformative projects and shape the future of transport planning.

Missions/Main Duties

• Deliver Development Planning projects, ensuring high-quality outcomes that exceed client expectations.
• Prepare Transport Assessments, Transport Statements, and Travel Plans, demonstrating technical excellence and attention to detail.
• Provide sound technical advice to clients, design teams, and stakeholders, ensuring informed decision-making throughout project lifecycles.
• Maintain a robust understanding of land use planning principles and policies, offering expert guidance on planning-related matters.
• Conduct junction modelling using tools such as LinSig and Junctions 10, optimising transport solutions for clients.
• Lead multi-disciplinary teams, managing resources, timelines, and budgets effectively.
• Support business development by identifying opportunities, managing bids, and building lasting client relationships.
• Act as a technical authority within the organisation, providing mentorship and contributing to the development of innovative methods and tools.

Profile/Skills

• Technical Expertise: Proven experience in delivering Development Planning projects and preparing Transport Assessments, Transport Statements, and Travel Plans.
• Land Use Planning Knowledge: Comprehensive understanding of land use planning principles and policies, with the ability to translate them into effective project outcomes.
• Junction Modelling Proficiency: Expertise in LinSig and Junctions 10 software for accurate and efficient junction analysis.
• Leadership: A track record of successfully leading teams, managing resources, and delivering complex projects.
• Client Focus: A customer-centric approach, ensuring client satisfaction through proactive communication and technical excellence.
• Business Acumen: Strong financial management skills, ensuring project profitability while balancing commercial and technical priorities.
• Communication: Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, capable of articulating complex technical concepts clearly and effectively.

Qualifications and Experience

• Degree in Geography, Civil Engineering, or a related discipline.
• Chartered status or Transport Planning Professional (TPP).
• Significant experience in delivering Development Planning projects and managing complex client requirements.
• Expertise in junction modelling tools, including LinSig and Junctions 10.
• Strong understanding of transport and Development Planning policies and guidelines.

Why SYSTRA?

Our three core values: Excellence, Connected Teams and Bold Leadership are kept at the heart of everything we do. We strive for the highest levels of technical excellence, achieving the best results through teamwork, both locally and internationally, and reward innovative thinking through encouraging all colleagues to think as leaders. We offer clear and well supported pathways for career development and qualification attainment, a competitive remuneration package including a bonus and private healthcare, an electric car scheme and a broad suite of flexible benefits to suit your lifestyle.

Flexibility

Because we value who you are as much as what you do, we want you to feel supported at work. We offer hybrid working, balancing the benefits of working from home with time in our modern, well-equipped offices for that crucial in-person contact, team development and collaborative working. We also recognise that life doesn’t always run to the same schedule for everyone, so we have a dedicated flexible working policy to support you in tailoring your work life to reach your full potential.

Diversity & Inclusion

We provide a warm welcome and encourage applications from a diverse range of people who can enrich our company and offer perspectives which will drive better solutions in a truly inclusive environment. Our employee led working groups and clearly defined strategy help us to keep at the leading edge of important issues and keep us accountable. We want our colleagues to feel comfortable to bring their whole selves to work and continually seek new ideas and contributions to ensure we continue to grow and develop in this space. It’s no surprise that people do their best work when they feel physically and mentally supported. Our SYSTRA Wellness Programme offers a wide range of support; from Wellness champions, to free health checks, healthy eating workshops and regular seminars, alongside access to a wide range of external support. We offer two paid days for charity work and an ever-growing social calendar.

Apply and find out more about how SYSTRA can support you in your career journey. If you require any adjustments or financial assistance to support you in your application or interview process please email: where your request will be treated confidentially and with respect. We pledge to offer an interview to any candidates with a disability who apply for a role and meet the minimum criteria. As we are always looking to expand our team, we would still be interested in hearing from you if you fulfil most, but not all, of the relevant criteria for the role – you could still be just what we are looking for.