Job Description
We are looking for a high-performing Principal Consultant who blends deep technical expertise in transport safety with a strong commercial and client-focused mindset. This person will build strategic client relationships, identify and shape opportunities, win work, and lead the successful delivery of high-quality consultancy projects.
You will act as a trusted advisor to senior stakeholders across the transport space, helping commercial and government clients solve complex challenges and supporting the growth of TRLs consulting business. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys business development and relationship leadership as much as delivering impactful, evidence-based work.
Transport sector experience is essential, but we will consider expertise in other relevant sectors, such as rail, aviation, defence, automotive technology and energy/nuclear safety.
The successful candidate will be based at TRL Headquarters in Wokingham, Berkshire or Woolwich, London, and we welcome flexible and hybrid working arrangements.
You should be willing to travel within the UK, with occasional international trips, as part of supporting clients and collaborative project work.
What youll do:
Client and relationship leadership
Build, maintain, and grow strong senior-level client relationships.
Lead engagement strategies to understand emerging needs and position TRL as a partner of choice.
Represent TRL externally at industry forums, conferences, and client workshops.
Business development and work winning
Proactively identify and develop new opportunities through insight-driven, consultative conversations.
Lead bids and proposals, shaping compelling value propositions and delivering effective pitches.
Support account growth planning and long-term pipeline development.
Monitor market trends and translate them into commercial opportunities.
Technical leadership and project delivery
Lead and deliver complex consultancy projects, ensuring technical excellence and measurable client value.
Apply sound methodologies to shape robust, evidence-based solutions.
Mentor and support consultants and analysts, helping develop capability across the business.
Provide technical judgement and challenge where needed to ensure work is robust, well-reasoned, and aligned with best practice.
Communicate complex concepts clearly, enabling clients to make informed decisions.
What were looking for
Professional background
Demonstrable experience in consulting or advisory roles with strong exposure to client engagement.
Proven track record in winning work, shaping opportunities, and growing client accounts.
Strong project delivery experience across multidisciplinary assignments.
Experience in leading teams and people management is preferable
Professional membership or chartership (e.g., CEng, MICE, CIHT, IOSH) beneficial but not essential.
Knowledge of the Safe System approach is desirable.
Commercial and client-focused skills
Demonstrable ability to develop opportunities and build long-term client relationships.
Strong commercial awareness and ability to articulate value-driven propositions.
Skilled in consultative selling, from understanding client needs to converting opportunities into work.
Behaviours and mindset
Comfortable in an outward-facing, relationship-led role.
Proactive, entrepreneurial, and outcome-focused.
Excellent communication skills and ability to distil complex issues into compelling messages.
Collaborative and able to influence across teams and with external stakeholders.
Why join TRL?
Competitive salary and benefits
25 days annual leave
Matched pension, healthcare cashback, income protection
Professional development and chartership support
Flexible, hybrid, and part-time working options
Opportunity to shape the future of safe, sustainable transport through high-impact work
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