Defence Sector Lead (ESA Architecture) in Bristol

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.

About Us

We are one of the world’s leading engineering and professional services firms. Our 72,800 passionate people are united by the common purpose of creating positive, long-lasting impacts on the communities we serve through a culture of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. With over 9,000 professionals across the UK and Ireland, we are dedicated to our local communities and propelled by international brainpower.

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. We also provide reasonable workplace adjustments for those in need. Additionally, you can benefit from the Gymflex scheme, which offers up to 40% off annual gym memberships through our WSP flexible benefits program, as well as a comprehensive menopause support package.
• 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.