WSP has appointed Ruth Bailey as deputy chief operating officer for UK and Ireland.

Bailey joins WSP from AtkinsRéalis, bringing more than 20 years of international experience across the project lifecycle. She is a chartered civil and structural engineer who has delivered major international projects before transitioning into large-scale business management and operational leadership.

In her new role, she will focus on operational excellence across WSP’s UK and Ireland business and work with the leadership team.

Mathieu du Plooy, chief operating officer, UK and South Africa at WSP, said: “Ruth’s appointment reflects the importance we place on operational excellence as our UK & Ireland business continues to grow. Her engineering background and operational leadership will be a real asset to WSP.”

Ruth Bailey added: “WSP has an incredible reputation for delivering complex, impactful projects. I’m thrilled to be joining the organisation and look forward to working with Mathieu and the wider leadership team to support WSP’s continued growth and deliver strong outcomes for our clients.”