We are now seeking a highly experienced and visionary Principal for Built Environment and Infrastructure to lead and expand our Americas practice, positioning the businss as the trusted leader in this space. This pivotal role will ensure our clients developments and infrastructure are secure, resilient, and aligned with international best practices and regulatory standards. The successful candidate will also serve as a strategic advisor on high-profile projects as required.

The ideal candidate will be a recognised subject matter expert in:

• Strategic security planning and program development as part of multi-disciplinary design teams
• Spatial planning, including the application of Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED), and other relevant principles
• Security master planning
• Security design and engineering, including protective design and technical assurance
• Fire and Life Safety (FLS) strategy and integration
• Site security surveys and risk assessments
• Systems integration, including Security Operations Centers (SOCs) and technology platforms

They will also have a proven track record of leading teams to deliver strategic security outcomes in complex, fast-paced, and multidisciplinary environments.

Role tasks and responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• As part of the global practice senior leadership team, lead the development and execution of security risk management strategies in the Americas across a diverse portfolio of built environment and infrastructure projects, in line with the companys global strategy and plans
• Provide expert guidance on embedding security principles into urban design, architecture, and infrastructure planning.
• Build, mentor, and lead a high-performing team of specialists, fostering a culture of excellence, innovation, and collaboration.
• Shape and grow the Americas practice, aligning team capabilities with market needs and strategic priorities.

Technical Assurance & Compliance

• Oversee technical assurance and conformance reviews to ensure alignment with international standards (e.g., ISO, BSI, NFPA, UN-Habitat).
• Develop and maintain a robust framework for audits, assessments, and continuous improvement across the project lifecycle.
• Ensure quality and consistency in the delivery of security, fire and life safety (FLS), and resilience solutions.

Security Master Planning

• Direct the development and implementation of comprehensive security masterplans for major developments and regeneration initiatives.
• Collaborate with urban planners, architects, engineers, and end users to integrate security into every stage of the design and delivery process.

CPTED & Spatial Risk Analysis

• Direct/apply CPTED principles to enhance safety and reduce crime risks through environmental and spatial design.
• Direct/conduct spatial risk assessments and scenario planning to inform strategic design and operational decisions.

Business Development

• Drive strategic growth in the built environment and infrastructure security sector by identifying new markets, clients, and partnership opportunities.
• Shape and promote the businesses market positioning and value proposition in urban and infrastructure security risk management.
• Lead the development of compelling proposals and presentations for major consultancy and assurance projects, delivering innovative and effective solutions.

Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as the senior point of contact for internal and external stakeholders, including government agencies, regulatory bodies, and design teams.
• Represent the business at industry forums, working groups, and international conferences, enhancing visibility and influence.

Innovation & Best Practice

• Stay ahead of emerging threats, technologies, and methodologies in the security and built environment sectors.
• Champion innovation through research, pilot projects, and knowledge sharing, ensuring our solutions remain cutting-edge and future-ready.

Requirements

Qualifications and specialist skills

• Bachelors degree or equivalent in, Urban Planning, Architecture, Engineering, or a related field. Masters degree in appropriate discipline preferred.
• Minimum 12–15 years of experience in security risk management within the built environment, with at least 5 years in a senior leadership role.
• Deep expertise in CPTED, security master planning, and spatial planning.
• Strong knowledge of international security standards and regulatory frameworks.
• Demonstrated experience in leading multidisciplinary teams and managing complex projects.
• Professional certifications such as CPP, PSP, or equivalent are highly desirable.
• Ability to travel frequently

Competencies

Solutions focused

• Owns problems, identifies and works with the right people to solve problems quickly within own remit and wider teams
• Reviews and looks for efficiencies in ways of working
• Constantly seeks innovative ways to improve the services we offer to our clients
• Is prepared to make decisions and effectively implement those decisions
• Translates decisions into effective actions and implements these
• Acts decisively and makes difficult decisions even if unpopular
• Implements plans to ensure objectives are achieved or exceeded; focuses on delivery
• Shows and encourages a determination to achieve high standards

Client centric

• Uses own and wider knowledge and contributes to others to enable and make sound judgements that impact the client and team
• Anticipates client needs and addresses these
• Provides the best possible service to clients, ensuring the client is at the heart of everything we do