Associate or Associate Director Landscape Architect / Landscape Planner

Overview

Join a leading international professional services firm as an Associate or Associate Director in Landscape Architecture and Landscape Planning based in Manchester. Become part of a passionate, ambitious, and collaborative team spread across the UK and Ireland, working on diverse landmark projects that make a positive global impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Contribute as a core member of a dynamic and motivated landscape and urban design team.
• Lead Landscape and Visual Impact Appraisals and Assessments as a Landscape Planner.
• Manage landscape architectural design projects, including urban realm and mixed-use developments, progressing through all LI/RIBA stages, typically within BIM level 2 environments.
• Develop and maintain strong relationships with clients from public and private sectors.
• Prepare bids for diverse projects, ranging from small-scale to complex multidisciplinary assignments.
• Guide and delegate tasks to junior team members, fostering professional growth.
• Engage directly with clients by offering design advice, organizing workshops, and coordinating stakeholder events.
• Participate actively in internal cross-disciplinary groups to encourage innovation, excellence, and thought leadership.

Qualifications and Experience

• Holds a degree or equivalent qualification in Landscape Architecture.
• Possesses a postgraduate diploma or master's degree in Landscape Architecture or similar.
• Proven expertise in authoring Landscape and Visual Impact Appraisals and Assessments.
• Experienced in successfully delivering landscape and urban design projects from initial analysis through concept and detailed design stages, including planning and construction documentation.
• Proficient technically with Autodesk or Bentley software suites and Adobe Creative Suite.
• Excellent command of English with strong verbal, written, and graphic communication skills.

Culture and Benefits

• Flexible hybrid working arrangement allowing two days remote work per week alongside time in modern offices.
• Supportive environment promoting inclusivity and belonging, welcoming diverse backgrounds and authentic personal expression.
• Employee resource groups fostering a culture of respect and inclusion.
• Comprehensive health and wellbeing programs including virtual GP services, workplace adjustments, Gymflex discounts, and menopause support.
• Work-life balance initiatives such as daily flexible hours (“WSP My Hour”), part-time and flexible working options, additional leave purchase, and customized bank holiday use.
• Emphasis on professional growth through training, mentoring, and pathways to Chartership.

Equal Opportunity Commitment

The employer is committed to diversity and actively encourages applicants of all genders, races, abilities, ages, sexual orientations, and other identities. It is recognized as a Disability Confident leader, offering interviews to all disabled candidates meeting essential criteria and providing workplace adjustments as necessary.