Landscape Architecture Studio Lead

Overview

AtkinsRéalis is seeking a Chartered Landscape Architect (Associate/Associate Director) to lead our Edinburgh studio and expand our Landscape Architecture presence across Scotland. The role offers the chance to lead a talented team, drive design excellence, build client relationships, win work and grow our market presence within a UK practice of more than 80 professionals.

As part of a multidisciplinary team, you will deliver a diverse portfolio across public realm, infrastructure, regeneration, urban design and nature‑based solutions.

As Landscape Studio Lead you will shape the future of our Scottish Landscape Architecture and Urban Design team, champion design excellence, and drive strategic growth across Scotland. You will report to the Northern Landscape & Urban Design Team Lead and work closely with the wider Northern Landscape team.

• Provide inspiring leadership to a talented team of Landscape Architects and Urban Designers, fostering a positive, collaborative and high‑performing studio culture.
• Lead the strategic growth and development of the Scottish Team.
• Mentor and support colleagues at all career stages, including those working toward Landscape Institute Chartership.
• Champion design excellence, innovation and technical quality across all aspects of project delivery.
• Lead and oversee the delivery of complex multidisciplinary projects.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with clients, collaborators, local authorities and key stakeholders across Scotland.
• Identify, lead and support business development, bidding and work‑winning activities to secure new opportunities in landscape architecture, master‑planning and urban design.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across Buildings & Places and the wider AtkinsRéalis business to develop integrated design solutions.
• Contribute to the continued development of the wider UK Landscape Practice, sharing knowledge, expertise and best practice across regions.
• Promote AtkinsRéalis externally through industry engagement, networking, presentations, thought leadership and professional activities.
• Support the development of compelling design narratives and innovative solutions that deliver positive outcomes for people, places and nature.

We are looking for a passionate and commercially aware leader who combines design excellence with a proven ability to develop people, build client relationships and grow a team.

• Chartered Member of the Landscape Institute (CMLI).
• Significant experience leading and delivering Landscape Architecture projects within a consultancy environment.
• Demonstrable experience leading multidisciplinary teams and complex projects with significant technical, commercial and stakeholder considerations.
• Proven ability to develop client relationships and secure work through successful bids, proposals and business development activities.
• Strong people leadership and team management experience.
• Excellent communication, presentation and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong commercial awareness and experience managing project performance and profitability.
• A reputation for delivering high‑quality design and technical excellence.
• Experience acting in a lead consultant, design management or project leadership capacity.
• Ability to inspire, motivate and develop teams in a collaborative environment.
• This role is based within our Edinburgh studio and requires regular attendance to support team leadership, client engagement and project delivery. Flexibility to travel across Scotland and the wider UK will be required from time to time to support project, client and business development activities.

Competitive salaries, employee rewards, flexible holiday allowances and a hybrid working culture. Opportunities for training and professional development to grow your skills and expertise.

The role may require security clearance. Offers of employment will depend on obtaining the relevant level of clearance, which may be discussed during the interview. If required, the vetting process is delivered by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require proof of UK residency of 5 years or longer.