Principal Consultant, Marine Consents
Are you ready to lead the way in shaping sustainable offshore development? GHD Advisory is looking for a dynamic and experienced Principal Consultant, Marine Consents to manage and grow our UK-based consultancy services, while playing a global role in delivering offshore wind and marine infrastructure projects across the globe.
In this high-impact role, you’ll direct and deliver complex environmental approvals for major offshore infrastructure projects—including in the rapidly evolving offshore wind sector. You’ll provide strategic advice, lead a growing team, and collaborate with colleagues and clients across EMEA, APAC, and the Americas.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead the delivery of marine EIAs, consents, and permitting strategies for offshore developments in UK and European waters.
* Serve as a Technical Advisor on complex, high-profile environmental projects across international markets.
* Collaborate with global GHD teams to offer advisory services and share best practice on marine approvals and compliance.
* Mentor and grow a high-performing team, providing technical guidance, leadership, and career development opportunities.
* Guide and coordinate strategic bids and proposals, identifying and pursuing opportunities aligned with business growth goals.
* Foster long-term client relationships, acting as a trusted advisor and delivering consistent value through insight and delivery excellence.
* Represent GHD at industry events, stakeholder engagements, and internal forums, actively contributing to market visibility and thought leadership.
* Integrate environmental considerations into project design by working closely with engineers, planners, and regulators.
* Oversee the production of high-quality, clear, and impactful reports and communications tailored to clients, regulators, and stakeholders.
* Stay informed on emerging trends and regulatory developments, contributing to continuous improvement and innovation in our services.
Key Skills & Experience Required
* Bachelor’s degree (or higher) in Environmental Sciences, Marine Science, or related discipline.
* 10+ years of marine environmental consulting experience, with strong expertise in offshore wind and other marine sectors.
* Demonstrated success delivering environmental impact assessments and permitting projects, ideally including UK DCO applications or equivalent.
* Deep understanding of UK environmental regulations; international marine consenting experience a strong advantage.
* Familiarity with environmental and social risk frameworks, including IFC Performance Standards and Equator Principles.
* Proven ability to lead and develop teams with strong people management and mentorship skills.
* Strong business acumen and track record of successful project delivery, client growth, and proposal development.
* Exceptional interpersonal skills—able to influence, negotiate, and build consensus across multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders.
* Skilled in technical writing, data analysis, and regulatory engagement, distilling complex issues into actionable strategies.
* Passion for sustainability, innovation, and creating lasting environmental value through infrastructure development.
Why Join GHD?
GHD is a global professional services company committed to solving the world’s biggest challenges in water, energy, and urbanisation. As part of our growing Advisory business, you’ll work on career-defining projects with international impact—helping to shape the future of offshore energy and marine development.
We offer a collaborative, inclusive, and flexible work culture where your expertise will be valued, and your ideas will help drive real change.
Our Commitment to You
* Equality, diversity, and inclusion are at the heart of our team culture. We actively promote inclusive and equity-focused initiatives.
* Competitive salary and benefits, including 25 days paid leave, pension contributions, and flexible working.
* Professional development through the GHD Business School and formal education access.
Working Location
The role is hybrid, with a minimum of three days per week at a GHD office. Preference for London or Guildford offices, but other UK locations may be considered.
Seniority Level
Director
Employment Type
Full-time
Job Function
Strategy/Planning, Science, and Consulting
Industries
Civil Engineering, Industrial Machinery Manufacturing, and Environmental Services
Location
Greater Guildford Area, United Kingdom
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