Principal Consultant

Principal Consultant - Marine Consents Join GHD Advisory, a global professional services leader committed to solving large‑scale challenges across energy, transport, utilities and urbanisation. GHD is one of the world’s leading professional services companies operating in water, energy, resources, environment, property and buildings, and transportation. Privately owned by our people, GHD delivers projects with high standards of safety, quality and ethics across five continents. The Role GHD Advisory seeks an experienced Principal Consultant to manage and grow our UK‑based marine consents practice, while supporting offshore wind and marine infrastructure projects worldwide. In this high‑impact role, you will lead complex environmental approvals for major offshore infrastructure projects, provide strategic advice, grow a team, and collaborate with clients and colleagues 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 provide 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 a related discipline. 10+ years of experience in marine environmental consulting, including 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, with international experience in marine consenting considered a strong advantage. Familiarity with environmental and social risk frameworks, including IFC Performance Standards and Equator Principles. Proven ability to lead and develop teams, bringing strong people management and mentorship skills. Strong business acumen with a 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 stakeholder groups. Skilled in technical writing, data analysis and regulatory engagement, with an ability to distill complex issues into actionable strategies. Passion for sustainability, innovation and creating lasting environmental value through infrastructure development. Why Join GHD? 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. GHD offers 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 Commitment is a powerful word that defines how we do business, serve our clients and care for one another. We support your needs by giving you the tools to do your best work, recognising your achievements, and encouraging collaboration across our global business. Equality, diversity and inclusion lie at the heart of our culture. We operate a flat intellectual hierarchy so every voice is heard and has genuine influence. We recognise the value of diversity of race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, ethnicity, national origin and experience. We offer a competitive salary, 25 days paid leave with the option to purchase additional leave, matched pension contributions and family‑friendly flexible working. We advocate for your professional development and provide access to formal education through GHD Business School and practical application through technical delivery. Working Location GHD operates a hybrid working standard with a minimum of three days per week at a GHD office. Preference will be given to GHD’s London or Guildford offices, although other UK offices are also available. #J-18808-Ljbffr