Technical Director - Built Heritage in Birmingham

Job Description

Job Title: Technical Director – Built Heritage

Location: Birmingham

Reports To: Director

Role Overview

An established consultancy is seeking an experienced and forward‑thinking Technical Director – Built Heritage to lead the technical delivery, conservation strategy, and innovation across its heritage portfolio. This role is central to ensuring the highest standards of conservation, restoration, and adaptive reuse of historic buildings while balancing regulatory compliance, sustainability, and commercial viability.

The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership, technical oversight, and mentorship across multidisciplinary teams, positioning the organization as a leader in built heritage consultancy and delivery.

Key Responsibilities Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement the technical vision and standards for built heritage projects across the organization.
• Advise senior leadership on heritage conservation strategies, risks, and opportunities.
• Contribute to business development, including bids, client engagement, and thought leadership.

Technical Oversight

• Lead the technical delivery of heritage projects, ensuring compliance with conservation principles and statutory requirements.
• Provide expert guidance on historic materials, structural interventions, and conservation methodologies.
• Review and approve technical reports, specifications, and conservation plans.

Project Delivery

• Oversee complex heritage projects from inception through completion.
• Collaborate with architects, engineers, planners, and contractors to ensure high‑quality outcomes.
• Manage project risks, budgets, and timelines with a focus on technical excellence.

Regulatory & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with local and international heritage regulations and standards.
• Liaise with planning authorities, heritage bodies, and stakeholders.
• Stay updated on evolving legislation, conservation practices, and sustainability standards.

Innovation & Sustainability

• Champion innovative approaches to heritage conservation, including digital tools and modern construction techniques.
• Integrate sustainability and climate resilience into heritage projects.
• Promote adaptive reuse and low‑carbon interventions in historic environments.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, mentor, and develop a team of heritage professionals.
• Foster a culture of technical excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning.
• Support recruitment and professional development initiatives.

Qualifications & Experience

• Degree in Architecture, Building Conservation, Structural Engineering, or related field (Master’s).
• Professional accreditation (e.g., RIBA, IHBC, ICE, CIOB, or equivalent).
• Minimum 10–15 years of experience in built heritage, conservation, or related sectors.
• Proven leadership experience managing multidisciplinary teams and complex projects.
• Strong knowledge of historic building techniques, materials, and conservation best practices.

Key Skills & Competencies

• Strategic thinking and leadership
• Advanced technical expertise in heritage conservation
• Strong communication and stakeholder engagement skills
• Commercial awareness and project management capability
• Problem‑solving and decision‑making in complex environments
• Passion for cultural heritage and sustainable development

Desirable Attributes

• Experience working with listed buildings and heritage assets of significance
• Familiarity with digital heritage tools (e.g., BIM for heritage, laser scanning)
• Published work or thought leadership in the heritage sector

What We Offer

• Opportunity to shape and lead high‑profile heritage projects
• Collaborative and innovative work environment
• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Professional development and career progression opportunities

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