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About Henry Opata
Henry is a Principal Geotechnical Engineer within our Infrastructure division, contributing over 17 years of expertise in temporary and permanent works design. He demonstrates exceptional capability in developing conceptual frameworks into comprehensive, executable engineering solutions, supported by extensive experience across both consulting and contracting sectors.
Henry's professional methodology emphasises the delivery of safe, constructible, and cost-effective solutions through meticulous reporting standards and comprehensive risk assessment protocols. His technical competencies encompass pile and foundation design, earth-retaining structural systems, slope stability analysis, ground investigation programs, and geotechnical parameter evaluation in adherence to British Standards and Eurocode requirements. He has served as Contractor’s Representative Engineer - Design (CRE-D) on Network Rail schemes, helping to close the loop between design intent and construction delivery.
Henry is passionate about mentoring junior staff and excels at simplifying complex technical decisions for stakeholders at all levels.
Professional Experience
WITH THE COMPANY SINCE 2025 | OVER 17 YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY
Henry has been a Principal Geotechnical Engineer at SOCOTEC UK since November 2025. For companies such as Balfour Beatty Rail (UK), Van Elle Ltd (UK), Ivor King Ltd (UK), Coffey Geotechnics Ltd (UK), Sweco Ltd (UK), VPPLC - Groundforce Shorco (UK).
Qualifications
Education
The University of Sheffield (UK), PhD (Part time), 2018 – 2026 (on going)
Nottingham Trent University (UK), MSc, 2006 – 2007
Nottingham Trent University (UK), MSc, 2004 to 2006
K.N. University of Science & Technology (Ghana), BSc, 1996-2000
Professional Licences and Certification
Member of the Institute of Materials, Minerals & Mining 2022