Project Director – RPS (Asset Surveying & Inspection)
Location: Abingdon‑On‑Thames, England, United Kingdom
About the Opportunity
RPS, part of Tetra Tech since January 2023, is seeking a proactive and ambitious Project Director to lead a portfolio of complex operational projects within our Asset Surveying and Inspection business. This role offers an exciting opportunity for a strategic leader to deliver project excellence, maintain high standards of service quality and efficiency, and support the UK water industry’s network of services including water networks, drainage, surveying, water resources and efficiency.
About the Team
The Asset Surveying & Inspection team provides industry‑leading services to the UK Water Industry. Our employees support services for water networks, drainage, surveying, water resources and efficiency.
About You
As the Project Director, you will take ownership of end‑to‑end project delivery, drive efficiency, and ensure the health and safety of our remote field teams. You will be measured on financial performance, stakeholder relationships, business process improvement, and implementation of best practices. The role requires regular travel across the UK.
Responsibilities
Leadership
* Lead and inspire a team of regional and project managers and remote field teams.
* Model leadership behaviours that promote safety standards, team development, and best practices across all projects and operations.
Commercial & Risk Management
* Oversee profit and loss (P&L) responsibilities and fee generation within the designated region.
* Identify, manage, and mitigate project risks to maximise commercial opportunities while ensuring regulatory compliance.
* Support the preparation of bids and proposals, creating compelling value propositions that highlight our capabilities.
* Establish governance around contract management and ensure thorough legal reviews to mitigate risks and ensure dispute resolution.
Driving Project Efficiency
* Achieve desired financial targets including profitability, budget management, and days sales outstanding targets.
* Identify opportunities for process improvements and implement strategies to enhance project efficiency.
* Champion the adoption of innovative technologies and methodologies to streamline workflows, reduce costs, and improve project outcomes.
Performance Management
* Coach and develop the regional and project management team, ensuring compliance with training, competency processes, and relevant regulations.
* Hold ultimate accountability for project performance and business initiatives, delivering progress reports to the Operations Director.
KPI Management
* Lead teams to achieve and exceed KPIs, including revenue, profit and cash collection targets.
* Align project and operational performance with overall commercial strategies and regional plans.
Client Collaboration
* Establish and nurture key client relationships to enhance existing and future business opportunities.
* Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to showcase our capabilities and support business growth.
Change Management
* Champion a culture of continuous improvement, leading change management initiatives to enhance project and operational standards and processes.
Skills, Experience & Qualifications Required
* Proven experience in leading complex projects with a strong track record in commercial leadership and project delivery.
* Ability to build lasting relationships with new and existing clients.
* Significant senior management experience, demonstrating expertise in delivery and business growth within a professional services environment.
* Strong financial acumen with experience in managing P&L accounts.
* Experience driving business change and implementing digital transformations in project delivery.
* Excellent problem‑solving and conflict management skills, with the ability to influence and negotiate effectively.
* Exceptional verbal and written communication skills for engaging with clients, staff, and management.
* Full UK driving licence.
Desirable Qualifications
* In‑depth knowledge of the water and wastewater sector, including regulatory and compliance standards.
* Good understanding of NEC contracts and frameworks.
What’s in it for You?
A personal development plan and a transparent career pathway put you in the driving seat of your career. You’ll be supported as far as you want to go. A career here is far from ordinary – you’re not a number, you’re part of the solution.
Why RPS?
We’re a connected community that works together to achieve exceptional outcomes. Flexible working, a hybrid model, and a supportive environment help you maintain a work‑life balance. Our trust in our people’s ability to meet client needs makes RPS a great place to build a career.
About RPS, a Tetra Tech Company
RPS, part of Tetra Tech since January 2023, is a global firm that designs, manages, and defines projects in urbanisation, natural resources, and sustainability. With a team of 28,000 employees across 550 offices and over 120 countries, we deliver solutions that create lasting value in an increasingly urbanised, resource‑scarce world.
Next Steps
If you are a good match, we will contact you to arrange a competency interview. If this opportunity suits your career journey, let us hear from you. Please have your CV ready and continue with your application online.
Senior Level
* Director
Employment Type
* Full‑time
Job Function
* Management and Manufacturing
Industries
* Business Consulting and Services
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