European Strategic Business and Relationship Director

European Strategic Business and Relationship Director

Brussels

Shape a future with purpose at Arup in Europe. 

Lead Arup’s engagement with European Institutions and shape the future of the built environment.

Arup’s purpose, shared values and collaborative approach has set us apart for over 75 years, guiding how we shape a better world. 

Since 2021, Arup has operated a small business development unit in Brussels engaging with the European Union and the European Commission. Now, we're establishing a Brussels office to grow our EU project portfolio and influence sustainable development across Europe. This role is crucial for expanding our impact on the European built environment.

The Opportunity

This is a unique opportunity to grow Arup’s advisory work for European Institutions, relating the needs of EU policymakers with our service offerings engagement and to shape the future of the built environment. You will play a pivotal role in building our Brussels office, winning impactful projects, engaging with senior EU stakeholders and positioning Arup as a trusted advisor to the EU. This offers high visibility, significant impact, and the chance to work with a diverse team of experts across Europe.

As our European Strategic Business and Relationship Director, you will:

• Develop and implement a bidding strategy and delivery model for EU projects, ensuring alignment with Arup’s overall European strategy
• Cultivate senior- level relationships with senior EU stakeholders in relevant fields (European Parliament, European Commission, Membership organizations and NGOs) to win strategic commissions and position Arup as a trusted advisor
• Foster relationships with professional services firms and consultants in the built environment for potential partnerships on major EU tenders
• Identify and engage key stakeholders within Arup who can benefit from EU engagement and contribute to winning EU tenders
• Grow,  and develop and mentor our Brussels team (permanent staff and freelancers), fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment in winning work in the EU sector.

Does this role inspire you?

We're looking for a senior professional with a proven track record in consultancy in the built environment and the European policy context. We value:

• 20+ years of work experience, including 5+ years in the European policy context (ideally in a senior role in a relevant built environment or advisory consulting firm in Brussels between 2019-2024).
• A proven track record of winning consulting work with the EU, the EIB and/or major European Cities or Regions. Excellent understanding of EU policies related to the built environment (Buildings, Cities, Transport) such as the EPBD (Environmental Performance of Buildings Directive) or Climate-Neutral and Smart Cities Mission.
• Knowledge of EU policies related to the built environment
• Brussels-based or able to be in Brussels regularly (50% of the time), available for a minimum of 2 days/week (part-time preferred)
• Proficiency in both written and spoken English, as well as French and / or German

Why Arup?

At Arup, we believe in rewarding our members for their contributions to our shared success. As a trust-owned company, we have the freedom to pursue meaningful work that aligns with our purpose and values. We also offer a unique profit share program, allowing our members to share in the results of our collective efforts.

Benefits that work for you:

• Professional Growth & Development: Benefit from continuous learning opportunities, training programs, and mentorship to enhance your skills and advance your career at Arup.
• Global Opportunities: Collaborate with colleagues worldwide and explore potential short-term or long-term assignments at other Arup offices and project locations.
• Financial Well-being & Ownership: Receive a competitive salary and benefits package and share in Arup's success through our global profit-sharing programme.
• Hybrid Working:  Enjoy a flexible work model with remote working and office days, plus up to 20 days per year of international remote working options.

At Arup, you belong to an extraordinary collective where individuality is encouraged. Our strength comes from how we respect, share, and connect our diverse experiences, perspectives, and ideas. You'll have the opportunity to do socially useful work that has meaning – to Arup, to your career, and to the clients and communities we serve.

We are proud to be an equal-opportunity employer and are committed to building a workplace that reflects the rich diversity of the world around us. We actively promote a culture of inclusion where everyone feels welcome, respected, and valued.

We welcome applications from talented individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of age (within legal limits), gender identity or expression, disability, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other protected characteristic. We are committed to making our recruitment process and workplaces accessible. If you need any assistance or adjustments, please visit our Candidate Support page for contact information and assistance. We're happy to help.

Do you want to join us in shaping a better world?

Apply here: