Engineering and environmental professional services consultancy WSP has appointed James Rowntree as strategic growth director.

He will drive growth in strategically important UK markets for WSP - utilities, water, industrial and energy sectors – and will also lead a number of the firm’s major projects and strategic pursuits. 

Rowntree brings a wealth of experience in strategy development and business growth to WSP and will support the UK business in achieving ambitious targets set out in its 2022-24 strategy.

He was previously vice president on Jacobs’ European Leadership Team and was initially responsible for developing its strategic consulting division comprising of more than 800 people. Rowntree went on to lead the start-up telecommunications and digital infrastructure sector. 

Previously, Rowntree was also managing director for transportation (Europe) at CH2M and between 2016-18 was seconded to HS2 Ltd as programme director, delivery partner for HS2 Phase 1.

“WSP’s steadfast ambition and growth potential is truly exciting and I’m looking forward to supporting the business deliver upon the targets set in its 2022-24 strategy,” said Rowntree.

“My experience of leading teams which drive significant growth and the delivery of major projects will enable me to support WSP in its clear ambition to grow into new sectors and develop new opportunities – an ambition which will be to the benefit of our people and clients.”

Paul Tremble, chief strategy officer at WSP, added: “I’m delighted to welcome James to WSP at what is an exciting time for our business. His experience in delivering growth for large and ambitious organisations makes him a perfect fit for the direction WSP is taking over the course of the next three years and beyond.

“Moreover, James’ experience of leading the delivery partner for HS2 Phase 1, Europe’s largest infrastructure project, makes his knowledge invaluable to the way WSP is supporting clients and projects of a similar scale, and I’m looking forward to working closely with him.”