At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the Defence Sector while managing exciting architectural projects.
- Company: Join WSP, a global leader in engineering and professional services.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, health support, and opportunities for personal development.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community dedicated to positive change.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the defence sector and shape your unique career path.
- Qualifications: Qualified Architect with experience in the defence architectural industry.
The predicted salary is between 60750 - 74250 £ per year.
What if you could do the kind of work the world needs? At WSP, you can access our global scale, contribute to landmark projects and connect with the brightest minds in your field to do the best work of your life. You can embrace your curiosity in a culture that celebrates new ideas and diverse perspectives. You can experience a world of opportunity and the chance to shape a career as unique as you.
The Role
WSP Architects have grown in both scale and experience over the past 3 years, and an opportunity has presented itself to create a new role of Regional Defence Sector and office lead in our Bristol Studio to support and develop the current Defence Sector portfolio of work. This is an exciting role with significant opportunities in this sector and a great opportunity for future growth within the Region and helping to shape and develop existing and future talent within the Studio and the wider business. The Architectural team is well established with 100+ UK Architects and design professionals based across our Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, Glasgow, Manchester and London studios. You will be supported by an experienced team of design professionals to work alongside the UK leadership team, drive the ongoing development of the Defence Sector and become integral to our overall Architectural Sector Development Plan.
WSP has strongly rooted client relationships within this sector, and you will be tasked with enhancing these relationships through your skills and experience in a client facing role, while also leading and developing a sector specific support team within the architectural business. There will be regular reviews with the Head of Discipline, Operations Director and UK sector lead to review progress and the support required to meet the aspirations of the role, providing guidance and advice regarding meeting the Architectural Business Plan requirements and growing the sector expertise within the business.
What we will be looking for you to demonstrate…
- To lead and develop our Defence Sector capability.
- To lead bidding opportunities in the sector in the UK and overseas.
- To manage and control the quality of delivery and design.
- To engage in developing design talent and performance in the sector.
- To support the Architect Board in growing the business and meeting financial targets.
- To sit alongside the Bristol AD team lead, in running and managing the studio.
Qualifications:
- Previous experience in the defence architectural industry.
- Must be a qualified Architect.
- Working knowledge of UK building regulations and national standards.
- Working capability and proficiency in AutoCAD and Revit.
Knowledge & Skills:
- Technical design knowledge / skills in UK construction methodology.
- Experience of working as part of an architectural design team managing and delivering Tender and Construction Stage works packages.
- Have an ability to sketch and communicate technical detail graphically and effectively.
- Must be able to obtain UK vetting level of Security Check (SC).
Don’t quite meet all the criteria? Apply, and we can see how your experience aligns to this role and other opportunities within the team. Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Join our close-knit community of talented individuals who share your passion for making a positive impact. Our global team includes more than 69,000 employees, working together to make a difference in communities both close to home and around the world. With us, you can. Apply today.
WHAT’S IN IT FOR YOU?
- Work-life balance: At WSP, we understand that work is just one aspect of your life. It’s important to make time for you, your family, friends, interests and your community. Our hybrid working policy offers the flexibility to work from home two days a week, while also providing opportunities to collaborate in our modern offices across the UK.
- Inclusivity & Belonging: We welcome applicants with varied backgrounds and experiences. We enable rewarding careers by encouraging people to bring their whole and authentic selves to work so that our work represents the fullest spectrum of society. We celebrate integrity and treat people with respect, supporting each other and embracing a culture of inclusion and belonging at WSP.
- Health & Wellbeing: We are committed to supporting our people, giving you the tools to make improvements to your health and wellbeing through our Thrive programme. Our Virtual GP service gives you access to an NHS or Irish Medical Council GP at a time and place that suits you – giving you peace of mind and quick access to medical advice when you need it most.
- Flex your time: To enhance work-life balance, WSP offers the “WSP My Hour,” allowing you to take one hour each day for personal activities, with the flexibility to make up the time earlier or later that day. We also provide part-time and flexible working arrangements, the option to purchase additional leave, and the ability to use your bank holiday entitlement to suit you.
- Your development: We understand the importance of development and training to you. That’s why we foster a supportive environment that invests in your growth, whether through training, mentoring, or Chartership.
#WeAreWSP 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.
Full time
Posting Date: 2026-02-04
Defence Sector Lead - WSP Architecture in Bristol employer: WSP Group
WSP is an exceptional employer that prioritises work-life balance and inclusivity, offering a hybrid working policy that allows flexibility while fostering collaboration in modern offices. With a strong commitment to employee development, WSP provides numerous growth opportunities through training and mentoring, ensuring that every team member can shape a unique and rewarding career. Located in Bristol, the Defence Sector Lead role not only offers the chance to work on impactful projects but also to be part of a close-knit community dedicated to making a positive difference in society.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Defence Sector Lead - WSP Architecture in Bristol
✨Get Your Portfolio Game On Point
As an aspiring architect, your portfolio is your golden ticket. Make sure it's not just a collection of your best work, but tells a story about your design process and creative thought. Showcase a range of projects, from conceptual sketches to final renderings—think of it as a visual CV!
✨Slide into Networking Events
Architecture thrives on community connections, so keep an eye out for local architecture meetups, exhibitions, and lectures. These events are gold for meeting industry professionals, and who knows? You might just bump into someone from WSP Group who can give you the insider scoop on their hiring process!
✨Learn the Software Inside Out
Make sure you're up to speed with design software like AutoCAD, Revit, and SketchUp. Being able to discuss your proficiency during interviews can really set you apart. Plus, if you can mention particular projects where you’ve used them, you’ll demonstrate both skill and practical experience.
✨Refine Your Interview Skills
Interviews for architecture roles can get quite technical, so practice answering questions about your design process and decision-making strategies. Prepare for potential design challenges they might put forward in interviews—show them you can think on your feet and come up with innovative solutions!
We think you need these skills to ace Defence Sector Lead - WSP Architecture in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Design Skills:Architecture is all about creativity and technical skills, so make sure your portfolio is front and centre! Include a range of your best projects, showcasing different styles and techniques. Don't forget to explain your design process and the challenges you overcame for each project – it gives hiring managers a glimpse into your thought process!
Tailor Your CV to Architecture:When putting together your CV, highlight relevant experience in architectural design software, like AutoCAD or Revit. Plus, if you have any internships or coursework that involved real-world projects, be sure to mention them. We want to see not just what you've done, but how it relates directly to this role at WSP Group!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to express your passion for architecture and what drew you to WSP Group. Talk about specific projects or values of theirs you admire, and how you see yourself contributing to their team. We want to feel your enthusiasm – let it shine through your words!
Use Professional Terminology:Don't shy away from using industry-specific jargon that demonstrates your expertise! Terms like 'sustainability', 'scale', and 'aesthetics' can not only show your knowledge but also help you connect with the hiring team. Just ensure it's done in a way that's relatable and not overly technical, so we can see your passion clearly!
How to prepare for a job interview at WSP Group
✨Master the Technical Questions
In an architecture interview, be ready to tackle some technical questions about building codes, design principles, and software like AutoCAD or Revit. Brush up on your knowledge of materials and components, as you might even face scenarios to solve during the interview that showcase your problem-solving skills in real-time.
✨Bring Your Portfolio to Life
Your portfolio is your golden ticket! Make sure it not only showcases your best work but also highlights your design thinking process, from sketches to final outputs. During the interview, be prepared to discuss the projects in detail—what challenges you faced, how you overcame them, and what you learnt.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Sustainability
In today's architecture landscape, sustainability is key. Be sure to highlight any projects that involved eco-friendly designs or your understanding of sustainable practices. This will show that you’re not just familiar with the trends but are genuinely passionate about creating a better future through your designs.
✨Engage with Your Interviewers
Architecture is a collaborative field, so showing that you're a team player is essential. When conversing with the interviewers, actively listen and respond to their ideas. This isn’t just about you showing off your skills, but also about connecting and demonstrating how well you’d fit into their team at WSP Group.
