Associate Director Arboriculturist in Cardiff

WSP is a leading engineering and professional services firm with a global footprint. In this position, you will shape the future of arboriculture, lead a talented team, and deliver innovative solutions for clients across the UK.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Directors in leading and managing the Arboriculture and Forestry team, ensuring technical excellence and effective workload management.
• Engage with others to develop and support the achievement of medium‑term strategic direction.
• Work alongside the directors to support the creation of high‑performing teams through strategic resourcing decisions.
• Generate new business opportunities, prepare tenders, and oversee the delivery of a range of arboricultural services (technical, commercial, and financial).
• Contribute to recruitment activities to grow the team.
• Engage with peer groups and forums to build networks and share knowledge.
• Proactively contribute to tackling issues impacting team effectiveness.
• Support the development of others through knowledge sharing, mentoring, and fostering an enthusiastic and productive working environment.
• Report on financial status of the individual teams and produce regular updates to enable strategic planning.
• Deliver site and office‑based consultancy, supporting clients through survey programmes, regulatory engagement, and project implementation.

Qualifications and Experience

• Extensive experience in arboricultural planning and project delivery.
• Proven ability to support NSIP/DCO planning applications and deliver strategic survey programmes across the U.K.
• Experience with BS5837 Arboricultural Impact Assessments, Method Statements, and Environmental Impact Assessment chapters.
• Knowing how to oversee site works and manage an effective team to ensure successful client project delivery.
• Knowledge of planning and regulatory requirements for veteran and ancient trees and woodlands.
• Role model with a positive health and safety attitude, understanding the health, safety & wellbeing needs of the team.
• Experience in GIS, CAD and other relevant mapping software to assist in high‑quality service production.
• Track record of successful internal and external networking to win work from clients.
• Experience managing project financial targets and budgets.
• Positive can‑do attitude with a passion for leading and developing teams.
• Member of an accredited industry body relevant to the sector.

If you don’t meet every requirement, please apply – we are happy to consider how your experience aligns with this role and other opportunities within the team.

Benefits and Working Environment

• Work‑life balance: a hybrid working policy allows you to work from home up to two days a week and collaborate in modern offices.
• Inclusivity & Belonging: we welcome applicants from varied backgrounds and encourage authenticity in the workplace.
• Health & Wellbeing: access to a virtual GP service, Gymflex scheme, and comprehensive menopause support package.
• Flexibility: part‑time and flexible working arrangements, opportunity to purchase additional leave, and use of bank holiday entitlement.
• Development: supportive environment with training, mentoring, and chartership opportunities.

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.