Simon Everitt
Simon Everitt is a chartered engineer with extensive experience in the planning, design, supervision and delivery of maritime projects, with a particular focus on breakwaters and shore protection measures.
Biography
Simon joined HR Wallingford in 2022 as a technical director and now leads the coastal market sector. Prior to this, he spent 20 years at Jacobs Engineering, working across project management, design leadership and site supervision on a wide range of coastal and port engineering schemes.
Simon also plays an active role in industry standards. He is BSI Chairman for the review and development of national annexes to EN1991‑1‑8, and a panel member for updates to BS 6349, including Parts 7, 1‑2 and 1‑4.
Get to know Simon
What is your specialism and why did you choose it?
I specialise in coastal and maritime engineering, with particular experience in breakwaters and shore protection. My interest in the coast started early, influenced by strong family connections to the sea through yachting and commercial shipping.
I was always interested in practical problem‑solving—finding solutions that work for both people and the environment. That led me to study Civil and Coastal Engineering, and I’ve worked in coastal engineering ever since.
What attracted you to HR Wallingford, and what do you enjoy most about working here?
Coastal engineering combines engineering, science and professional judgement. Good solutions depend on understanding natural coastal processes and working with them, rather than imposing rigid designs. Before joining HR Wallingford, as a client I carried out several studies using the physical modelling hall and ship simulation centre. Being able to see coastal processes at scale, and to work closely with specialists who combine research with real‑world application, was a defining experience. The depth of expertise, facilities and collaborative culture made joining HR Wallingford a natural next step.
How do you and your team deliver impact through your work?
Coastal engineering projects affect people, infrastructure and the natural environment, so impact is central to our work. At HR Wallingford, we support projects from early planning and design through to detailed modelling and delivery. Using a mix of desk‑based studies, numerical tools and physical modelling, we help clients manage risk, test options and make informed decisions. This integrated approach supports sustainable water management and climate resilience, both in the UK and internationally.
What are the biggest challenges and opportunities in your field?
Climate change and coastal risk remain the defining challenges. With a significant proportion of the global population living alongside the coast, there is increasing pressure on communities, ports and infrastructure.
This also brings opportunity. By combining engineering, applied research and consultancy, we can help clients develop solutions that are resilient, proportionate and adaptable to future change. HR Wallingford’s focus on evidence‑led design and collaboration puts us in a strong position to support long‑term coastal resilience.