Job-ID: 97463Location: United KingdomPosted: 2026-10-15Freshwater ecosystems are under increasing pressure, and the need for innovative, science-led solutions has never been greater.
The information below covers the role requirements, expected candidate experience, and accompanying qualifications.
We're looking for an experienced and ambitious Freshwater Ecology Growth Lead to drive the growth, influence and technical excellence of our freshwater ecology practice. This is more than a technical leadership role.
It's an opportunity to shape the future of freshwater ecology within one of the UK's leading environmental and infrastructure consultancies, influence major projects of national significance, and build a thriving team that delivers meaningful outcomes for rivers, wetlands, lakes and aquatic environments.
If you're passionate about freshwater ecology, enjoy building client relationships, and are excited by the challenge of growing a high-performing team, we'd love to hear from you.
The OpportunityAs our Freshwater Ecology Growth Lead, you'll provide strategic direction for the growth, capability and delivery performance of the freshwater ecology team.
Working closely with senior leaders across Nature Services, you'll help shape our market approach, develop client relationships, identify new opportunities and ensure technical excellence across a diverse portfolio of projects.
You'll combine your ecological expertise with commercial insight to grow our presence across major infrastructure, water, transport, energy and environmental programmes while helping clients navigate complex environmental challenges and deliver positive outcomes for freshwater habitats and species.
Why This Role MattersYou'll help: Influence some of the UK's most significant infrastructure and environmental projects.
Shape how freshwater ecology is integrated into sustainable development.
Build and grow a nationally recognised freshwater ecology practice.
Mentor and develop the next generation of freshwater ecologists.
Strengthen relationships with major clients, regulators and industry stakeholders.
Drive innovation in ecological assessment, monitoring and environmental delivery.
What You'll Be DoingDriving Growth and Market DevelopmentDevelop and deliver a clear growth strategy for freshwater ecology aligned with wider business and sector priorities.
Identify market opportunities, emerging trends and future client needs.
Build a strong pipeline of opportunities across infrastructure, water, energy and transport sectors.
Support strategic bids, framework opportunities and major pursuits.
Bring freshwater ecology expertise into early client discussions to help shape practical, proportionate solutions.
Develop new service offerings and contribute to thought leadership within the industry.
Leading Client RelationshipsAct as a trusted advisor to key clients and stakeholders.
Build long-term relationships across major infrastructure and environmental programmes.
Collaborate with sector and account leaders to identify cross-disciplinary opportunities.
Represent the freshwater ecology practice at industry events, client forums and conferences.
Help clients solve complex environmental challenges through innovative and outcome-focused approaches.
Building a High-Performing TeamProvide visible leadership across the freshwater ecology community.
Support recruitment, succession planning and capability development.
Create opportunities for technical growth, mentoring and knowledge sharing.
Foster a collaborative, inclusive and high-performing culture.
Develop and strengthen national networks of freshwater specialists.
Ensuring Excellence in DeliveryProvide strategic oversight across the freshwater ecology portfolio.
Work closely with project managers and technical leads to ensure projects are delivered safely, efficiently and profitably.
Monitor performance, resource requirements, quality standards and delivery risks.
Share lessons learned and embed continuous improvement across the practice.
Champion innovation, digital tools and smarter ways of working.
About YouYou'll be an experienced freshwater ecologist who enjoys combining technical leadership with business growth and client engagement.
Essential ExperienceStrong track record of leading teams through growth, change or business transformationSignificant experience within freshwater ecology and the UK environmental sectorExperience working on major infrastructure projects and understanding complex consenting environmentsStrong knowledge of UK freshwater ecology legislation, policy and best practiceProven ability to develop client relationships and identify new business opportunitiesExperience supporting successful bids, frameworks or strategic project growthExcellent communication, influencing and stakeholder management skillsCollaborative leadership style with the ability to inspire and develop teamsDesirable ExperienceChartered status or membership of a relevant professional body (CIEEM, CIWEM or equivalent)Experience leading freshwater ecology inputs for nationally significant infrastructure projectsEstablished relationships with regulators, infrastructure clients and environmental stakeholdersKnowledge of innovative monitoring techniques, digital tools or emerging ecological technologiesExperience developing new service lines or technical offeringsIndustry profile through publications, conferences, professional groups or technical guidanceWe offer: The opportunity to shape and lead a nationally recognised freshwater ecology practiceA key role influencing major infrastructure and environmental programmes across the UKAccess to multidisciplinary teams including aquatic ecology, environmental assessment, engineering, GIS, natural capital and water specialistsLeadership development and career progression opportunitiesSupport for professional memberships and chartershipA collaborative culture that values innovation, knowledge sharing and technical excellenceJoin Us and Make a Lasting ImpactFreshwater environments are among our most valuable natural assets.
This is your opportunity to lead a team that's helping to protect, restore and enhance them while shaping the future direction of freshwater ecology across some of the UK's most complex and exciting projects. If you're ready to combine technical credibility, strategic leadership and business growth, we'd love to hear from you. Apply today and help create healthier freshwater environments for generations to come. Imagine a better future for you and a better future for us all. Work on landmark projects around the world and embrace opportunities to make an even bigger impact in the communities you care about.
What if you could do thebest work of your life and create a legacy for yourself? xbpsjku With us, you can.
Apply today.#LI-MB1
Freshwater Ecology Growth Lead in London employer: WSP Group
At WSP, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration among our talented team. As a Major Projects Executive in Western Australia, you will not only lead transformative transport infrastructure projects but also benefit from executive-level remuneration, flexible working arrangements, and robust leadership development pathways. Join us to make a meaningful impact while enjoying the support of a close-knit community dedicated to your professional growth and well-being.
