Head of Design & Build, Water UK&I

📍 Job Overview

Job Title: Head of Design & Build, Water UK&I

Company: AECOM

Location: London, United Kingdom (with potential for Glasgow, United Kingdom)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Operations Management / Business Development (Water Infrastructure)

Date Posted: April 13, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the strategic growth and market development for AECOM's contractor-led Design & Build services within the UK&I Water sector.

• Drive business development initiatives, identify, and secure high-value opportunities by fostering strong partnerships with key contractors and designers.

• Oversee and govern major contractor-led projects and programs, ensuring successful delivery and exceptional client satisfaction.

• Develop and implement a robust market strategy aligned with AECOM's Water UK&I Strategic Plan and global objectives.

• Cultivate a high-performing, inclusive, and engaged team environment, championing AECOM's values and promoting continuous development.

📝 Enhancement Note: The role of "Head of Design & Build" in the Water sector is a senior leadership position focused on expanding AECOM's market share within the contractor-led project delivery model. This involves a blend of strategic planning, business development, commercial acumen, operational oversight, and strong relationship management within the UK&I water infrastructure landscape. The emphasis on Design & Build signifies a focus on integrated project delivery, where AECOM takes a leading role in both the design and construction phases, often in partnership with main contractors.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and execute a comprehensive market growth plan for the contractor-led Design & Build segment within the Water UK&I business, aligning with the overarching Water UK&I Strategic Plan.

• Proactively identify, monitor, and track new business opportunities in collaboration with Client Account Managers, ensuring timely integration into business planning systems.

• Enhance AECOM Water's visibility and reputation within the contractor-led market through effective internal and external communication of market strategy and capabilities.

• Cultivate and nurture robust strategic partnerships with key water sector contractors and designers to enable targeted pursuit of significant, high-value projects.

• Drive exceptional client satisfaction by actively engaging with clients, monitoring performance metrics (e.g., Net Promoter Score), and implementing data-informed improvement actions.

• Foster a positive and inclusive workplace culture that embodies AECOM's values, champions Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), and promotes employee engagement and continuous professional development.

• Collaborate with Business Unit Directors to forecast medium- and long-term resource requirements, actively leading recruitment efforts for strategic and senior-level positions.

• Work seamlessly with cross-functional teams across Europe and globally to deliver complex, multidisciplinary projects and programs, effectively showcasing AECOM's work-winning strengths.

• Hold ultimate accountability for the successful bid governance and Go/No-Go decision-making process for major contractor-led projects, while providing support for the governance of smaller pursuits.

• Lead by example in championing and ensuring the effective implementation of AECOM's Safety, Health, and Environment (SH&E) policies and procedures, driving the achievement of core SH&E metrics for the Water business.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a strategic leadership role focused on revenue generation and market expansion. The emphasis on "contractor-led" implies a need for strong understanding of project delivery models common in the UK water sector, where main contractors often lead large frameworks. The role requires a balance of high-level strategy, client engagement, operational oversight (bid governance, SH&E), and people leadership, with a clear reporting line to the Managing Director of Water.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While no specific degree is mandated, a Bachelor's degree in Engineering (Civil, Environmental, Mechanical), Construction Management, or a related technical field is highly preferred. Advanced degrees or professional certifications in project management or business administration would be advantageous.

Experience: A minimum of 10 years of progressive leadership experience is required, with a significant portion spent in senior roles within the UK&I water sector. This must include proven success in leading and growing businesses, developing and managing leadership and multidisciplinary project teams, and extensive commercial and contract management expertise.

Required Skills:

• Senior leadership experience within a matrixed multinational consultancy, contractor, or key water-sector supplier.

• Proven success in building and leading high-performing leadership teams and diverse multidisciplinary project teams.

• In-depth knowledge of the UK & Ireland water markets, including key contractors, regulatory frameworks, and socio-political and economic drivers impacting the sector.

• Demonstrated ability to provide growth-focused leadership, encompassing talent development, coaching, and succession planning.

• Extensive commercial and contract management expertise, with a strong understanding of contract negotiation and risk management.

• Track record of securing major frameworks, winning new business opportunities, and growing existing client contracts within the water sector.

• Strong client relationship management capabilities, with a focus on building trust and delivering exceptional service.

• Solid attention to detail, with a demonstrated ability to deliver effective health & safety initiatives and foster a strong safety culture.

• Experienced in motivating, managing, and developing diverse, multidisciplinary teams in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with Design and Build (D&B) project delivery models and a deep understanding of their complexities.

• Familiarity with advanced project management methodologies and digital tools for project execution and reporting.

• Experience in strategic planning and implementation within a large, complex organization.

• Strong understanding of sustainability principles and their application in water infrastructure projects.

• Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.

📝 Enhancement Note: The experience requirement of "10+ years" suggests a role for seasoned professionals. The emphasis on a "matrixed multinational consultancy, contractor, or key water-sector supplier" indicates a need for experience in complex organizational structures and a strong understanding of the industry ecosystem. The explicit mention of "Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion" as a required competency underscores its importance within AECOM's leadership culture.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Case studies showcasing successful growth strategies implemented in the water sector, particularly within contractor-led frameworks.

• Examples of developed and executed market strategies, demonstrating clear objectives, methodologies, and measurable outcomes.

• Documentation or descriptions of major bids won, highlighting the role in bid governance, commercial strategy, and successful client engagement.

• Evidence of successful client relationship management and strategies employed to drive client satisfaction and repeat business, potentially including NPS improvement examples.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrated experience in developing and implementing structured processes for opportunity identification, tracking, and qualification within a business development context.

• Examples of implementing effective bid governance frameworks, including Go/No-Go processes and ensuring compliance with company policies.

• Evidence of establishing and managing processes for performance monitoring and continuous improvement, leveraging data and client feedback (e.g., NPS).

• Documentation of approaches to fostering and managing strategic partnerships with external entities like contractors and designers.

• Processes for resource planning, recruitment, and talent development within a strategic leadership capacity.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior leadership role like this, a portfolio should demonstrate strategic impact, commercial success, and leadership capabilities. The focus should be on quantifiable achievements and well-articulated strategies rather than just listing responsibilities. Evidence of managing complex processes, particularly in business development, bid management, and team leadership, will be crucial.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on AECOM's status as a global infrastructure consulting firm, the seniority of the role (Head of Design & Build), the required experience (10+ years), and the location (London, UK), the estimated annual salary range for this position is likely between £120,000 and £180,000 GBP. This estimate considers industry benchmarks for senior leadership roles in engineering and construction consulting in major UK cities, factoring in the strategic importance and revenue-generating responsibilities of this position.

Benefits:

• Career development opportunities: Access to structured career progression paths and ongoing professional development.

• Flexible hybrid working model: A balance between office-based collaboration and remote work to support work-life integration.

• Technical practice networks: Opportunities to connect with and learn from specialists across various disciplines within AECOM globally.

• AECOM University: Access to a comprehensive learning platform for skill enhancement and continuous education.

• Volunteering days: Paid time off to contribute to community initiatives and support social causes.

• Comprehensive Health & Well-being Programs: Support for physical and mental health, including potential access to private medical insurance, wellness initiatives, and employee assistance programs.

• Pension Scheme: Competitive employer-matched pension contributions.

• Life Assurance: Financial protection for beneficiaries.

• Share Purchase Plans: Opportunities to invest in AECOM's success.

Working Hours: The standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week. However, given the senior leadership nature of the role and the hybrid work arrangement, there is an expectation of flexibility to meet business needs, including occasional work outside of standard hours for critical project milestones, client engagements, or bid submissions.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary range is an estimation based on typical compensation for senior leadership roles in major UK infrastructure consulting firms in London. Actual compensation will be determined by factors such as candidate experience, specific qualifications, and final negotiation. The listed benefits are a combination of those explicitly mentioned and common offerings for senior roles in large multinational corporations.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: AECOM operates within the Engineering, Construction, and Infrastructure Consulting industry. Specifically, the Water business line focuses on water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure solutions, addressing critical needs for public health, environmental protection, and sustainable resource management. The company is a major player in global infrastructure development, known for its comprehensive project lifecycle services.

Company Size: AECOM is a global company with over 50,000 employees worldwide, categorized as a large enterprise. This scale provides significant resources, access to diverse expertise, and opportunities for international collaboration, while also requiring strong internal processes and effective communication to navigate its complexity.

Founded: AECOM traces its roots back to 1910, with a long history of engineering and construction excellence. This legacy implies a deep-seated culture of technical proficiency, innovation, and a commitment to long-term project delivery and client relationships.

Team Structure:

• The Water UK&I business is a significant component of AECOM's operations, comprising approximately 600 professionals. This role sits within the Water UK&I leadership team and reports directly to the Managing Director of Water.

• The Head of Design & Build will collaborate closely with other Business Directors, including those responsible for Strategy and Growth, Commercial operations, and regional leadership within AECOM Europe & India.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: AECOM emphasizes leveraging data and analytics for performance improvement, client satisfaction (e.g., NPS), and strategic planning.

• Integrated Project Delivery: The "Design & Build" focus highlights a methodology that integrates planning, design, and construction phases to optimize project outcomes.

• Collaborative Innovation: The company culture promotes cross-functional collaboration and knowledge sharing to foster innovation and deliver complex solutions.

• Client-Centric Approach: A strong emphasis is placed on building partnerships with clients and understanding their needs to deliver exceptional service and tangible impact.

Company Website: https://www.aecom.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's description positions it as a global leader in infrastructure consulting, committed to sustainability and delivering tangible impact. The "Work with Us. Change the World." slogan underscores a mission-driven culture. The company's size and global reach mean that roles often involve navigating complex organizational structures and collaborating across diverse teams and geographies.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership position, positioned at the Director level, responsible for a critical market segment (Design & Build contractors) within a major business line (Water UK&I). The role requires strategic vision, significant P&L influence (through business development and project oversight), and the ability to lead and develop substantial teams. It represents a significant step in career progression for individuals with extensive experience in water sector business development, project leadership, and commercial management.

Reporting Structure: The Head of Design & Build reports directly to the Managing Director of Water UK&I. This direct line of reporting signifies the strategic importance of this market segment and provides direct access to senior leadership for strategic alignment and decision-making. Collaboration will be extensive with other Business Directors and global teams.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on AECOM's revenue growth and market share within the UK&I water sector, specifically within the contractor-led delivery model. Success in this position will contribute directly to AECOM's overall financial performance, its strategic positioning in a key infrastructure market, and its ability to deliver impactful, sustainable water solutions. The role is pivotal in shaping AECOM's offering and execution in a rapidly expanding investment landscape.

Growth Opportunities:

• Strategic Leadership Expansion: Potential to expand the scope of responsibility within AECOM's Water business or across other infrastructure sectors, potentially leading to broader regional or global leadership roles.

• Deepening Sector Expertise: Opportunity to become a recognized thought leader in the Design & Build water sector, influencing industry best practices and contributing to AECOM's strategic direction.

• Mentorship and Talent Development: A key growth area involves mentoring and developing future leaders within AECOM's Water business, contributing to the company's talent pipeline and succession planning.

• Cross-Business Collaboration: Opportunities to lead or participate in large-scale, multidisciplinary projects that span multiple AECOM business lines (e.g., transportation, environment), broadening experience and network.

📝 Enhancement Note: The "Head of" title clearly indicates a senior leadership role with significant autonomy and responsibility. The direct reporting to the MD of Water underscores its strategic importance. Growth opportunities are likely tied to expanding the business unit's success and potentially moving into broader leadership roles within AECOM's international operations.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role operates within a hybrid work model, meaning a blend of working from AECOM offices and remotely. AECOM's London office, specifically the Aldgate Tower location, is mentioned as a primary location. This model is designed to offer flexibility while retaining the benefits of in-person collaboration and team cohesion.

Office Location(s): The primary location is London, UK (Aldgate Tower). Glasgow, Scotland, is also mentioned as a potential work location. This offers geographical flexibility for candidates based in or willing to relocate to these major UK cities.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages collaboration through planned office days, team meetings, and cross-functional project work, fostering a dynamic exchange of ideas.

• Access to Resources: Employees will have access to AECOM's extensive digital tools, technical resources, and global knowledge networks, supporting efficient project delivery and professional development.

• Team Interaction: Regular interaction with the Water UK&I leadership team, project teams, and wider AECOM professionals will be integral to the role, facilitating knowledge sharing and strategic alignment.

Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is based on a 40-hour week, but the senior leadership nature of this role implies a need for flexibility to accommodate project demands, client needs, and strategic initiatives. The hybrid model allows for some self-management of work location and potentially hours, balancing professional responsibilities with personal well-being.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a key feature, offering flexibility. The mention of specific office locations like Aldgate Tower in London provides concrete information for candidates considering commute and office environment. The emphasis on collaboration within this flexible structure is important for understanding team dynamics.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CVs and cover letters to assess alignment with core qualifications and experience, particularly in senior leadership, water sector, and contractor-led market expertise.

• First Interview: Likely with the Hiring Manager (Managing Director of Water UK&I) and potentially a senior colleague. This stage will focus on strategic thinking, leadership philosophy, understanding of the UK water market, and business development approach. Candidates may be asked to present an initial overview of their market strategy.

• Second Interview/Assessment: May involve a more in-depth discussion with other senior leaders, including commercial directors or global market leads. This could include a presentation or case study focusing on developing a growth plan for contractor-led work, managing complex bids, or resolving strategic challenges.

• Final Interview: Potentially with regional leadership or a panel, focusing on cultural fit, leadership style, EDI commitment, and overall suitability for the senior leadership team.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Strategic Impact: Curate examples that clearly demonstrate your strategic planning and execution capabilities. Highlight how your initiatives led to measurable business growth, market share expansion, or significant project wins.

• Contractor Market Focus: Showcase specific experience working with, or leading teams that work with, major water sector contractors in the UK&I. Detail your approach to building and managing these crucial relationships.

• Leadership & Team Building: Present case studies where you successfully built, led, and developed diverse, high-performing teams. Quantify team growth and highlight leadership development initiatives.

• Commercial Acumen: Include examples of successful bid governance, contract negotiation, or commercial strategy development that resulted in favorable outcomes for the organization.

• Conciseness and Clarity: Present your portfolio in a clear, structured format. Use compelling narratives supported by data and key performance indicators (KPIs) to illustrate your achievements effectively.

Challenge Preparation:

• Market Strategy Presentation: Be prepared to articulate a hypothetical or real-world strategy for growing AECOM's Design & Build market share with contractors in the UK water sector. This should cover market analysis, competitive landscape, key growth levers, and potential risks.

• Bid Governance Scenario: Anticipate questions or a scenario-based exercise around managing bid governance for a major contractor-led project, including decision-making criteria, risk assessment, and stakeholder alignment.

• Leadership & Team Management Scenarios: Prepare to discuss your approach to leading diverse teams, fostering inclusion, managing underperformance, and developing talent within a matrixed environment.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process is likely to be rigorous, reflecting the seniority of the role. Candidates should prepare to demonstrate not just experience but also strategic thinking, leadership presence, and a deep understanding of AECOM's business within the UK water sector. A well-prepared portfolio is essential for showcasing tangible achievements.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools: While not explicitly listed, a Head of Design & Build would typically leverage a range of tools for strategic planning, business development, project oversight, and team management. These would likely include:

• CRM Systems: For managing client relationships, tracking opportunities, and forecasting sales pipeline (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics).

• Project Management Software: For oversight of project delivery, resource allocation, and progress tracking (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com).

• Collaboration Platforms: For team communication, document sharing, and virtual meetings (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom).

• Financial & Bid Management Tools: For budget oversight, bid preparation, and commercial analysis.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: For analyzing market trends, pipeline data, and performance metrics (e.g., Tableau, Power BI).

• Reporting Dashboards: To track KPIs related to business development, project delivery, client satisfaction (NPS), and SH&E performance.

• Data Analysis Software: To interpret complex datasets related to market opportunities and project performance.

CRM & Automation:

• CRM Integration: Ensuring seamless data flow between CRM systems and other business applications for a unified view of clients and opportunities.

• Workflow Automation: Potentially utilizing automation tools to streamline business development processes, reporting, or internal approvals.

• ERP Systems: To integrate financial data, project costing, and resource management across the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: Specific tools are not detailed, but the role's scope implies proficiency in enterprise-level CRM, project management, and BI tools. The ability to leverage data for strategic decision-making and performance management is paramount.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding ethical standards in all business dealings, bid processes, and client interactions.

• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Encouraging innovative approaches to market development, problem-solving, and business growth within a structured framework.

• Pioneering Mindset: Driving forward new strategies, embracing new technologies, and seeking novel solutions to complex infrastructure challenges.

• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): Actively fostering a workplace where all individuals are respected, valued, and have the opportunity to contribute their unique talents, leading to richer decision-making and innovation.

• Client Focus: A deep commitment to understanding and exceeding client expectations, building long-term partnerships based on trust and delivery excellence.

• Safety First: Prioritizing the health, safety, and well-being of employees, clients, and the public in all operations and project execution.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-functional Integration: Encouraging seamless collaboration between Design & Build teams, other AECOM business lines (e.g., design engineering, environmental, construction management), and global counterparts to deliver integrated solutions.

• Open Communication: Promoting transparency and open dialogue across teams and with stakeholders to ensure alignment, address challenges proactively, and share best practices.

• Partnership-Oriented: Building strong, collaborative relationships with external partners, particularly contractors, to achieve shared project goals and foster mutual success.

• Feedback Culture: Encouraging a culture where constructive feedback is regularly exchanged to drive continuous improvement in processes, performance, and team dynamics.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's stated values of Integrity, Entrepreneurial Spirit, and Pioneering Mindset, alongside a strong emphasis on EDI, will shape the ideal candidate's approach to leadership and business operations. The collaborative and partnership-oriented style is crucial for success in the contractor-led market.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Market Competition: Navigating a competitive landscape for Design & Build contracts within the UK water sector, requiring differentiated strategies and strong value propositions.

• Complex Stakeholder Management: Balancing the needs and expectations of AECOM's internal leadership, project teams, and a diverse range of external contractors and clients.

• Resource Allocation: Effectively forecasting and securing the necessary talent and resources to meet fluctuating demands in a growth market, especially for senior technical and leadership roles.

• Driving Innovation: Encouraging adoption of new technologies and innovative design/build methodologies within a traditionally conservative sector, while ensuring robust SH&E compliance.

• Maintaining Culture in Growth: Ensuring AECOM's core values and inclusive culture are maintained and strengthened as the business unit expands and recruits new talent.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Strategic Market Leadership: Gaining extensive experience in shaping and executing growth strategies for a key market segment within a global corporation.

• Industry Influence: Opportunity to become a prominent voice in the UK water infrastructure sector, influencing industry trends and best practices in Design & Build delivery.

• Executive Development Programs: Access to AECOM's internal leadership development programs, designed to enhance executive capabilities and prepare individuals for broader organizational leadership.

• Cross-Sectoral Exposure: Potential to engage with projects and teams in other infrastructure sectors, broadening expertise and understanding of AECOM's diverse service offerings.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for a senior growth-focused role in a large, dynamic industry. The opportunities for learning and development are significant, aligning with AECOM's commitment to employee growth and its position as a global leader.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing and implementing a market growth strategy for contractor-led Design & Build opportunities in the UK water sector. What key components would you prioritize?" (Focus on market analysis, segmentation, value proposition, and execution steps.)

• "How would you foster and strengthen partnerships with major water sector contractors to increase AECOM's win rate on high-value projects?" (Emphasize relationship building, mutual value creation, and understanding contractor needs.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "How do you embody and promote AECOM's values of Integrity, Entrepreneurial Spirit, and Pioneering Mindset in your leadership approach?" (Provide specific examples of how you've demonstrated these values.)

• "Describe your experience and commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI). How would you champion EDI within your team and across AECOM's contractor-led business?" (Focus on practical actions and fostering an inclusive environment.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantify Impact: For each case study, clearly state the business objective, your role, the strategies implemented, and the quantifiable results (e.g., percentage growth in revenue, number of major bids won, improvement in client satisfaction scores, reduction in project delivery risks).

• Storytelling with Data: Weave a narrative around your achievements, using data to support your claims. For example, instead of saying "grew the business," say "grew contractor-led revenue by 25% within three years by implementing a targeted account management strategy."

• Focus on Strategic Leadership: Highlight instances where you demonstrated strategic thinking, influenced senior stakeholders, and led teams through complex challenges.

• Demonstrate Understanding of D&B: If possible, include examples that specifically showcase your understanding of the Design & Build delivery model and your ability to lead within such frameworks.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their strategic vision, leadership style, and ability to drive business growth in a competitive market. Demonstrating a deep understanding of the UK water sector and contractor dynamics, coupled with strong examples from their portfolio, will be key.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the AECOM careers portal via the provided job link.

• Tailor your CV and Cover Letter: Ensure your application materials clearly highlight your senior leadership experience, extensive knowledge of the UK water market and contractors, and proven success in business development, commercial management, and leading multidisciplinary teams. Use keywords from the job description to align your experience.

• Prepare your Portfolio: Curate a selection of your most impactful achievements, focusing on strategic growth, contractor partnerships, bid governance, and team leadership. Be ready to present these with clear, quantifiable results.

• Research AECOM: Familiarize yourself with AECOM's mission, values, recent projects in the water sector, and their commitment to sustainability and EDI. Understand their strategic goals for the UK&I market.

• Practice Interview Responses: Prepare to articulate your strategic approach to market growth, leadership philosophy, and problem-solving skills, using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for behavioral questions. Be ready to discuss your vision for the Head of Design & Build role.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.