Head of Department - Manchester

At Murphy Geospatial – A Woolpert Company, we deliver world‑class surveying and geospatial solutions that empower our clients to make informed decisions. With decades of expertise and an unwavering commitment to excellence, we work on some of the most exciting and complex projects across the UK, Ireland, and beyond.

We are now seeking an accomplished and forward‑thinking Head of Department to lead our Manchester region and drive its continued growth and success.

Role Overview

As Head of Department for our Manchester region, you will oversee the strategic direction, performance, and development of the department. You will lead a multidisciplinary team, drive operational excellence, and ensure the successful delivery of high‑quality geospatial projects.

This is a key leadership role, central to strengthening client relationships, expanding our presence in the North West, and fostering innovation across the business. Based in our Manchester office with hybrid flexibility, you will work closely with the Managing Director – UK and other senior leaders.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage a multidisciplinary team including surveyors, CAD technicians, utilities/CCTV specialists, and digital experts, fostering a strong culture aligned with company values.
• Oversee project delivery from scope to invoicing, ensuring quality, efficiency, and client satisfaction.
• Manage resources, resolve operational challenges, and maintain high delivery standards.
• Manage subcontractor oversight, approvals, and invoicing.
• Build strong client relationships and identify new business opportunities.
• Strengthen our regional presence and represent the company at industry events and meetings.
• Drive innovation, champion improved workflows, and support digital transformation.
• Monitor departmental performance, manage budgets, and ensure HS&E compliance.

Requirements

• Ability to work out of our Manchester office (with hybrid options).
• Strong background in surveying or a related field, with solid understanding of digital construction technologies.
• Degree in surveying or related discipline; Master’s degree beneficial.
• Proven senior leadership experience complex project environments
• Strong knowledge of geospatial instruments, workflows, and systems.
• Health, Safety & Environmental training (SPA, RAMS, lone working, etc.).
• Full rights to work in the UK.
• Ability to travel nationwide as required.

Key Attributes

• Self‑motivated with the ability to work independently and lead new initiatives.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to prioritise and meet deadlines.
• Positive, flexible, and collaborative approach to work.
• Strong planning and problem‑solving skills.
• Proven commercial awareness and ability to build business cases for innovation and efficiency.

What You Get

• Opportunity to lead a growing regional department within an industry‑leading organisation.
• Hybrid working and flexibility to support work–life balance.
• Access to cutting‑edge technology and digital geospatial solutions.
• A supportive leadership team and a culture that encourages innovation and quality.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.

Murphy Geospatial HR Philosophy

Our people are a critical part of our success and represent the value of Murphy Geospatial through their actions and decisions every day. We believe focusing on recruiting the best people and investing in their development helps us to create an environment where staff are engaged and committed, leading to higher levels of staff and client satisfaction.

Murphy Geospatial are proud to be an employer of equal opportunities. We encourage people with different beliefs, abilities, backgrounds and relevant life experiences to apply to our vacancies.

To all agencies: Please refrain from contacting any employee of Murphy Geospatial about this requisition. In the event a candidate who was submitted outside of Murphy Geospatial’s application process is hired, no fee or payment of any kind will be paid, unless such agencies were engaged by Murphy Geospatial’s Talent Acquisition Team for this requisition and a valid agreement is in place.

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