Project Director – PMCM Rail (Ireland)

At WSP, you will join a global organisation delivering transformative infrastructure programmes across Ireland, the UK, and internationally. You will work alongside industry-leading experts and support the expansion of our PMCM Rail offering in Ireland, helping us build strong client relationships and establish WSP as a trusted project delivery partner.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a pivotal role in the growth of our Ireland Rail business, working closely with key clients such as Iarnród Éireann / Irish Rail, the National Transport Authority (NTA), Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII), and regional local authorities.

As a Project Director within WSP’s PMCM Rail team, you will lead the delivery of major rail programmes across Ireland, while also helping shape our regional strategy, expand our client base, and cement our position as a long-term advisor within the Irish market.

Your Team

You will join a diverse, inclusive and enthusiastic team of Project, Commercial and Design Managers delivering major programmes across the Rail sector. Our passion is creating and shaping the built environment through best‑in‑class project delivery. As part of our Ireland-focused growth, you will play a leading role in developing our presence, driving client relationships, and building capability on the ground in Southern Ireland.

A Little More About Your Role…

Market Growth & Client Leadership (Ireland Focus)

• Lead and support the expansion of WSP’s PMCM Rail footprint across Southern Ireland.
• Establish strong, trusted relationships with key Irish rail clients.
• Act as a client advisor, understanding client objectives and translating them into successful delivery strategies.
• Support pipeline development, regional positioning and strategic bids within the Ireland rail market.
• Represent WSP at client engagements, industry events, and sector forums across Ireland.

Project & Programme Leadership

• Lead the delivery of large complex rail projects or a portfolio of smaller rail programmes across Ireland.
• Implement robust governance, controls and reporting mechanisms.
• Ensure works are delivered safely, on time, to budget and to the highest quality standards.
• Manage and develop suppliers to meet complex and dynamic programme requirements.
• Mentor and develop project teams to build capability within the region.

Client Liaison

• Act as the principal point of contact for Irish clients across all stages of programme delivery.
• Build long-term relationships through trusted advisory, strategic engagement, and proactive communication.

Stakeholder Management

• Engage effectively with external stakeholders including the NTA, TII, local authorities, statutory bodies and community representatives.
• Understand Ireland’s regulatory environment and manage expectations and approvals processes.

Commercial & Risk Management

• Manage NEC3/4 and Irish public‑sector frameworks in line with contract requirements.
• Ensure financial performance, cost control and resource utilisation align with programme objectives.
• Identify and mitigate key programme risks effectively.

Safety & Compliance

• Lead and champion safety performance and compliance with CDM regulations and Irish safety standards.
• Ensure environmentally responsible delivery aligned with WSP’s sustainability commitments.

Planning & Programme Controls

• Lead programme governance, project controls, resource planning and delivery monitoring.
• Oversee performance against strategic objectives and intervene as required.

Innovation & Continuous Improvement

• Drive innovation across project delivery, digital tools and programme methodologies.
• Promote continuous improvement, operational excellence and efficiency across the Ireland portfolio.

What we will be looking for you to demonstrate…

• Degree in engineering, construction, management or a related discipline.
• Chartered membership of a recognised professional body (or working toward it).
• APM / MSP / PMI / PRINCE2 / Six Sigma qualifications beneficial.
• Proven experience leading major rail or infrastructure projects.
• Experience engaging with rail organisations (Irish Rail, NTA, TII, Network Rail or similar).
• A strong understanding of the Ireland transport or rail market is highly desirable.
• Demonstrated leadership, commercial acumen and stakeholder engagement at senior level.
• Experience delivering NEC3/4 projects in a client‑facing environment.
• Ability to build and lead high-performing teams and establish trusted client relationships.
• Strategic thinker with curiosity, adaptability and a collaborative mindset.