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What Is a Head of Highways?

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You Will Learn.

  • What is a Head of Highways?
  • What are the responsibilities of a Head of Highways? 
  • What qualifications does a Head of Highways need?
  • What is the average salary of a Head of Highways?
  • Who employs a Head of Highways?
  • What skills does a Head of Highways need?
  • Where the latest Head of Highways jobs are and how to apply for them.
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What Is a Head of Highways?

A Head of Highways is a senior professional responsible for leading and overseeing the strategic planning, development, and maintenance of highway infrastructure and transportation networks. 

They play a critical role in managing and coordinating the activities of teams involved in the design, construction, and maintenance of road networks, bridges, and other transportation structures.

What Are the Responsibilities of a Head of Highways?

A Head of Highways holds a range of critical responsibilities related to the strategic planning, development, and management of highway infrastructure and transportation networks. 

They oversee the formulation and implementation of long-term strategies and policies aimed at improving the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of the country's road networks and transportation systems. 

Head of Highways professionals are tasked with leading and coordinating multidisciplinary teams involved in the design, construction, and maintenance of highways, bridges, and other transportation structures. 


While working as a Head of Highways, you will be required to:

  • Formulate and implement long-term strategies and policies for highway infrastructure development and management.
  • Lead and coordinate multidisciplinary teams involved in highway design, construction, and maintenance.
  • Collaborate with government agencies, local authorities, and stakeholders to ensure project alignment with urban development goals.
  • Manage project budgets, resources, and timelines while ensuring compliance with regulatory standards and safety requirements.
  • Foster innovation in highway engineering and promoting sustainable practices for the country's transportation infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions

To become a Head of Highways in the UK, individuals typically need a bachelor's degree in civil engineering, transportation engineering, or a related field. A degree is a fundamental requirement as it provides a comprehensive understanding of highway infrastructure principles and design practices. 

Postgraduate qualifications, such as a master's degree or certifications in project management or infrastructure management, can enhance one's expertise and career prospects in the field. 

Continuous professional development and staying updated with the latest trends and technologies in highway engineering and management are also necessary for excelling in this role.

On average, a Head of Highways earns around £65,000 per year. 

However, this can vary based on factors such as experience, location, the specific organisation, and the complexity of the role.

The majority of Head of Highways jobs are found within the public and private sector. Local authorities and government agencies often employ Heads of Highways to provide strategic leadership and oversight for the planning, development, and maintenance of the country's road networks and transportation infrastructure. 

Engineering consultancy firms and construction companies frequently seek Heads of Highways to lead and manage significant highway and transportation projects for both public and private sector clients. 

Transportation and infrastructure development firms may also employ Heads of Highways to provide technical leadership and expertise in the design and implementation of large-scale transportation projects.

What Skills Does a Head of Highways Need?

A Head of Highways must possess a diverse set of skills to effectively lead and manage the strategic planning, development, and maintenance of the country's highway infrastructure and transportation networks. 

Strong technical proficiency in highway engineering principles, including expertise in infrastructure design, construction methodologies, and project management, is essential for ensuring the successful delivery of complex highway projects. 

Effective leadership and management skills are crucial for providing strategic direction, overseeing multidisciplinary teams, and fostering a collaborative work environment to achieve project objectives. 


Key skills of a Head of Highways include:

  • Strong technical proficiency in highway engineering principles, infrastructure design, and project management.
  • Effective leadership and management skills for providing strategic direction and overseeing multidisciplinary teams.
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities for liaising with stakeholders and local communities.
  • Analytical skills for evaluating project feasibility and addressing complex engineering challenges.
  • Adaptability and a willingness to stay updated with the latest trends and technologies in highway engineering and management.

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