Lead Environmental Hydrology & Design Practice

Talisman is seeking a Lead Environmental Hydrology & Design Practice in Venice, CA, to guide strategies and ensure technical excellence. The ideal candidate will have over 15 years of experience in managing complex engineering and environmental design projects, particularly in coastal and floodplain areas. Key responsibilities include optimizing project performance, establishing quality standards, mentoring team members, and developing a strategic business plan. Strong leadership, communication skills, and deep technical expertise in watershed management are essential.
Our client is seeking an accomplished Lead Environmental Hydrology & Design Practice, this role holds the utmost seniority, responsible for steering company-wide strategies and ensuring technical excellence within the practice area. We are looking for an individual with exceptional leadership qualities and a proven track record of business success, boasting at least 15 years of experience in managing and executing complex engineering and environmental design projects tailored to coastal, valley, and floodplain communities.

Key responsibilities for this role will include (but not limited to):

• Leading the team to optimize project performance through proactive project management and risk mitigation strategies.

• Establishing and enforcing technical and methodological standards to ensure quality control procedures meet or exceed professional standards consistently.

• Facilitating solution-oriented and collaborative communication to address practice issues promptly and constructively.

• Developing and executing a comprehensive 5-year strategic business plan to enhance the practice's reputation for expertise, innovation, and integrity.

• Keeping abreast of regulatory changes and emerging technologies, and disseminating relevant information to the practice.

• Mentoring and coaching team members while maintaining high standards and fostering a culture of diversity and inclusion.

• Leading talent acquisition and development efforts, ensuring recruitment and support of top-tier talent.

• Expanding professional networks within client organizations and regulatory agencies to enhance our client's reputation and portfolio across regions.

• Identifying areas for investment and training to drive responsible growth while meeting operational requirements.

Required and desired skillsets, experience and qualifications for this role:

• More than 15 years of relevant experience in civil and/or coastal engineering, watershed restoration design, flood analysis, and natural resources management.

• Proven track record of leadership and success in delivering consulting services.

• Deep technical expertise in rural and urban watersheds, climate change adaptation, and flood management.

• Strong communication and collaboration skills.

• Recognized reputation as a client-focused leader and trusted advisor in the industry.

• Ability to utilize Excel spreadsheets, create excel trackers, and be able to use Word and Powerpoint for reporting/presentations via teams or in person.

Interested in finding out more? Reach out directly for more information – colin.reeves@talismanap.com