NEW YORK — WSP USA, a leading engineering, environment and professional services consultancy, hired Chris Heald to join its Transit and Rail national business line.
Heald serves as principal director for major transit and rail programs/projects, including contract administration and contract supervision. He also oversees improvements to operational performance and helps support business improvement and growth initiatives.
“Heald is an excellent fit for this role with his strong grasp of leadership and business operations in rail and transit-centric organizations, and his history of strategy development and long-term planning in the industry,” said Jannet Walker-Ford, WSP’s Transit and Rail national market leader.
“I am delighted to have the opportunity to join WSP’s immensely experienced and talented transit and rail team,” Heald said. “With unprecedented investment occurring in this sector in the U.S., I am confident that WSP’s team can continue bringing the highest quality solutions for our clients and help deliver seamless enhancements to transit and rail to improve the daily lives of millions across the country.”
Heald has more than 30 years of experience in rail and transit in the U.S., Canada and the UK, in both the public and private sectors. His broad skillset includes experience in rail system operations and maintenance, leadership of multi-disciplinary technical, advisory and safety teams, and business operations such as organizational change and effective team building.
Heald’s most recent role was regional director for an international consulting firm, where he led the U.S. consulting arm of Britain’s national rail owner/operator through a tumultuous and challenging period in the industry.
His international experience has created opportunities for innovative solutions and approaches across the U.S., including governance and asset management advisory solutions for agencies in the New York and New Jersey region.
Heald is a graduate of The University of Sheffield, England, with a master’s degree in rail systems engineering, and Durham University with a bachelor’s degree in general engineering. He is a chartered mechanical engineer through the UK’s Institution of Mechanical Engineers.
About WSP USA
WSP USA is the U.S. operating company of WSP, one of the world’s leading engineering, environment and professional services firms. Recognized on Fast Company’s Brands that Matter List for 2022 as a top Community-Minded Business, WSP USA brings together engineers, planners, technical experts, strategic advisors and construction management professionals who are dedicated to collaborate in the best interests of serving local communities. WSP USA designs lasting solutions in the buildings, transportation, energy, water and environment markets. With more than 15,500 employees in 300 offices across the U.S., WSP partners with its clients to help communities prosper. wsp.com
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