Principal Land Consultant

Principal Land Consultant Provide technical leadership on land matters across the UK and Ireland, with particular expertise in Development Consent Orders (DCOs) Lead the delivery of land workstreams for DCO and major infrastructure projects, including land referencing, land access, statutory consultation, and land acquisition activities. Liaise with landowners, land agents, legal representatives, planning authorities, key stakeholders, contractors and clients. Collaborate with engineering, environmental, planning and project management teams within WSP and across project supply chains. Lead quality assurance reviews of deliverables relating to the identification of land interests and rights, land referencing, access agreements, statutory processes, land acquisition and planning applications. Support continuous improvement by promoting quality, innovation, knowledge sharing and lessons learned across projects and regions. Ensure the successful delivery of land projects safely, on time, within budget and to a high standard. Act as a trusted advisor to clients and project teams, building and managing strong internal and external relationships. Provide people leadership as a role model within the Land team, managing, motivating, mentoring and developing colleagues. Contribute to business planning, resource management and the delivery of the wider Land business strategy. Support business development activities, including the preparation of bids, tenders and client proposals. Deliver technical training and share knowledge across the business through contributions to our CPD-accredited Land Academy. Undertake travel across the UK and Ireland, with the potential for occasional travel to WSP's Global Capability Centre (GCC) in India. What we will be looking for you to demonstrate Proven experience delivering land workstreams for Development Consent Orders (DCOs) and other statutory processes, with a strong understanding of relevant legislation and land acquisition mechanisms. Experience working on major infrastructure projects within multidisciplinary teams across a range of sectors and locations. Expertise in land, property, communities and stakeholder engagement within urban and/or rural environments. Demonstrable experience of identifying and mitigating land risks and advising clients throughout the project lifecycle. Experience negotiating with landowners and their representatives, including securing access, wayleaves, easements and other land rights. Strong understanding of the acquisition of land, rights and consents required to support major infrastructure projects. Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, influencing and negotiation skills. Ability to work independently and collaboratively, managing competing priorities while delivering high-quality outputs. Strong quality assurance, document management, business and IT skills. Degree qualified in Geography or related discipline. Chartered status or membership of a relevant professional body would be advantageous. Ability to travel effectively to project sites and client locations as required. 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. #L1-JC2