Head of Design & Build, Water UK&I

📍 Job Overview

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

Company: AECOM

Location: London, United Kingdom (Hybrid)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Water Sector Operations & Strategy

Date Posted: 2026-04-13

Experience Level: 10+ years

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Lead the strategic growth and market development for Design & Build (D&B) contractor opportunities within the Water sector across the UK & Ireland.

• Drive commercial success by identifying, pursuing, and securing high-value D&B projects and frameworks.

• Foster and maintain strong collaborative partnerships with key contractors and designers to enhance AECOM's market positioning.

• Oversee bid governance and strategic decision-making for major D&B pursuits, ensuring alignment with AECOM's broader business strategy.

• Champion a culture of excellence, safety, and inclusion within the Water UK&I leadership team, driving employee engagement and continuous development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a senior leadership function within AECOM's Water UK&I business, focusing specifically on the contractor-led Design & Build market. It requires a blend of strategic market development, commercial acumen, and operational leadership to drive significant revenue growth in a high-investment sector. The emphasis on "contractor-led" indicates a focus on AECOM's role as a design partner or integrated service provider within D&B project delivery.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

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

• Collaborate with Client Account Managers and Business Directors to proactively identify, track, and position AECOM for new D&B opportunities, ensuring timely entry into business planning and pursuit systems.

• Enhance AECOM Water's visibility and reputation within the contractor community through strategic engagement, effective communication of market strategy, and successful project delivery.

• Cultivate and nurture robust relationships with key D&B contractors and designers to drive targeted pursuit of high-value projects.

• Drive exceptional client satisfaction and performance by actively engaging with D&B clients, monitoring project outcomes, and implementing data-informed improvement actions, including leveraging Net Promoter Score (NPS) feedback.

• Lead and champion AECOM's values, including a strong commitment to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), fostering an environment where all employees feel valued and can contribute their unique talents.

• Work collaboratively with Business Unit Directors to forecast medium and long-term resource requirements for D&B projects and lead recruitment efforts for critical strategic and senior roles.

• Partner with global and European teams to ensure seamless delivery of multidisciplinary D&B projects and programmes, leveraging AECOM's extensive capabilities and expertise in work winning.

• Hold accountability for the governance of major contractor-led projects and programmes, particularly through the bid governance and Go/No-Go processes, while providing support for smaller pursuits.

• Exemplify and drive a strong Safety, Health, and Environment (SH&E) culture, ensuring strict adherence to AECOM's SH&E policies and procedures and achieving key SH&E metrics for the Water business.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on strategic business development (market growth, partnerships, visibility) and operational oversight (bid governance, resource planning, SH&E). The emphasis on collaboration across internal teams (Client Account Managers, Business Directors, global colleagues) and external stakeholders (contractors, designers) underscores the networked nature of this senior role within a large, matrixed organization.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: A degree in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g., Civil, Environmental, Mechanical) or a related field is typically expected. A Master's degree or professional chartered status (e.g., CEng) would be advantageous.

Experience: Minimum of 10 years of senior leadership experience within a matrixed multinational consultancy, contractor, or a key supplier within the water sector. This includes proven success in building and leading leadership teams and managing multidisciplinary project teams.

Required Skills:

• Strategic Planning & Market Development: Proven ability to formulate and implement strategic growth plans for specific market segments, particularly within the UK & Ireland water sector.

• Business Development & Work Winning: Demonstrated track record of securing major frameworks, winning new opportunities, and growing existing contracts with D&B contractors.

• Commercial & Contract Management: Extensive expertise in commercial negotiations, contract management, and understanding the financial drivers of Design & Build projects.

• Leadership & Team Management: Experience in building, leading, and motivating diverse, multidisciplinary teams, including talent development, coaching, and succession planning.

• Stakeholder Management: Strong capabilities in building and maintaining robust client relationships and fostering partnerships with key contractors and designers.

• UK & Ireland Water Market Expertise: In-depth knowledge of the water market, its key players (contractors, designers), and the socio-political and economic drivers influencing it.

• Bid Governance & Decision Making: Experience in leading bid processes, conducting governance reviews, and making strategic Go/No-Go decisions.

• Health & Safety Leadership: Solid understanding of and commitment to driving SH&E initiatives and ensuring compliance with policies and procedures.

Preferred Skills:

• Performance Monitoring & Improvement: Experience in implementing data-led performance improvements and utilizing metrics like NPS for client satisfaction.

• Financial Acumen: Strong understanding of financial reporting, budgeting, and P&L responsibility for a business unit or major projects.

• Change Management: Ability to lead and manage change within a large organization.

• EDI Advocacy: Demonstrated commitment to fostering an inclusive and diverse workforce.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize deep sector-specific knowledge and broad leadership capabilities. The "10+ years" experience level implies a need for significant strategic and operational impact, with a strong emphasis on commercial success and relationship building within the D&B contractor landscape of the UK water industry.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Strategic Growth Plans: Examples of developed and implemented market growth strategies, particularly for niche or expanding sectors like Design & Build within the water industry.

• Business Development Case Studies: Documented success in securing major frameworks, winning significant D&B contracts, and demonstrating revenue growth achieved through strategic pursuit.

• Leadership & Team Development: Evidence of building, mentoring, and leading high-performing multidisciplinary teams, potentially including team structure charts, development plans, or performance metrics.

• Contract & Commercial Management Examples: Demonstrations of expertise in managing complex contracts, negotiating terms, and mitigating commercial risks within large infrastructure projects.

• Client Relationship Management: Case studies highlighting successful long-term relationships with key clients or partners, showcasing proactive engagement and satisfaction metrics.

Process Documentation:

• Market Entry & Strategy Implementation: Documentation outlining the process for identifying new market opportunities, developing entry strategies, and executing them within a large organization.

• Bid Governance Framework: Examples of established processes for bid evaluation, risk assessment, and Go/No-Go decision-making for major projects.

• Performance Management & Improvement Cycle: Outlines of systems and processes used for monitoring project and team performance, analyzing feedback (e.g., NPS), and implementing corrective actions.

• Resource Planning & Recruitment Strategy: Processes for forecasting resource needs, developing recruitment strategies, and successfully onboarding senior talent.

📝 Enhancement Note: While a formal "portfolio" isn't explicitly requested in a typical CV sense, candidates will be expected to evidence their experience through detailed examples and case studies during interviews and potentially in proposal stages. The focus will be on demonstrating strategic thinking, commercial success, and leadership impact within the D&B water sector context.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on industry benchmarks for senior leadership roles (Head of Department/Director level) in major infrastructure consulting firms in London, the estimated salary range for this position is likely between £100,000 - £150,000 per annum. This range is highly dependent on the candidate's specific experience, track record, and negotiation.

Benefits:

• Flexible Hybrid Working Model: Offers a balance between office-based collaboration and remote work flexibility.

• Career Development Opportunities: Access to training, professional development, and advancement pathways within AECOM.

• Technical Practice Networks: Opportunities to connect with and learn from experts across various technical disciplines globally.

• AECOM University: A platform for continuous learning and skill enhancement.

• Volunteering Days: Paid time off to contribute to community initiatives.

• Comprehensive Health & Well-being Programs: Designed to support employees' physical and mental health.

• Pension Scheme: Standard company pension contributions.

• Life Assurance: Coverage provided for employees.

• Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential support services for personal and professional challenges.

Working Hours: Typically 40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through the hybrid working model. Standard business hours are expected, with the understanding that project demands may occasionally require extended hours.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimates are based on typical compensation for senior leadership roles in the UK infrastructure consulting sector, considering the seniority, responsibility, and location. AECOM's listed benefits are comprehensive, catering to work-life balance, professional growth, and employee well-being.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting. AECOM operates globally, providing advisory, planning, design, engineering, program, and construction management services across various sectors including transportation, buildings, water, new energy, and the environment.

Company Size: Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees globally. This large, matrixed structure offers extensive resources, global reach, and diverse career opportunities, but also requires strong navigational skills and collaboration.

Founded: AECOM has a long history, evolving from its origins in the early 20th century, with its current form established through mergers and acquisitions, culminating in its current global presence.

Team Structure:

• The role reports directly to the Managing Director of Water UK&I, placing it within the senior leadership of the Water business unit.

• Close collaboration is expected with Business Directors, Water UK Director of Strategy and Growth, Commercial Director, AECOM Europe & India leadership, and Global Water and Contractor Market teams.

Methodology:

• Data-Led Performance: AECOM emphasizes the use of data to drive performance improvements and strategic decision-making.

• Integrated Service Delivery: The company focuses on delivering comprehensive solutions across the project lifecycle, from advisory to construction management.

• Client-Centric Approach: A strong emphasis is placed on client satisfaction, partnership, and delivering tangible value.

• Commitment to Sustainability & ESG: AECOM integrates environmental, social, and governance priorities into its projects and operations.

Company Website: https://aecom.com/

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's description highlights its global scale, commitment to delivering a "better world," and its role as a trusted infrastructure partner. The company culture values integrity, entrepreneurial spirit, pioneering mindset, and innovation, alongside a strong emphasis on equity, diversity, and inclusion. This context is crucial for understanding how the Head of Design & Build will operate within the organization.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This is a senior leadership position, Head of Department level, responsible for a significant business segment (Design & Build contractors) within a major division (Water UK&I). It carries P&L influence, strategic market development responsibilities, and direct reports.

Reporting Structure: The role reports to the Managing Director of Water UK&I, indicating a high level of visibility and direct influence on the business unit's strategy and performance. Collaboration will be extensive across various directorates and global teams.

Operations Impact: The Head of Design & Build will have a direct and significant impact on AECOM's revenue growth, market share, and reputation within the UK & Ireland water sector. Success in this role will contribute substantially to AECOM's overall business objectives and its mission to "deliver a better world" through infrastructure development.

Growth Opportunities:

• Strategic Leadership Expansion: Potential to expand the scope of responsibility within the Water business or move into broader leadership roles within AECOM UK&I.

• Global Water Strategy Involvement: Opportunities to contribute to or lead global initiatives within AECOM's Water business or its contractor market focus.

• Mentorship & Talent Development: The role offers opportunities to mentor and develop future leaders within AECOM's D&B and water consulting practice.

• Industry Influence: The position provides a platform to influence industry best practices and shape the future of Design & Build in the water sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a pivotal point for career progression, offering a direct line to senior executive leadership and substantial strategic influence. The emphasis on "growth" and "market strategy" suggests that individuals who excel here can expect further opportunities in broader leadership capacities within AECOM.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: This role operates under a Hybrid Work Location Model. This means a blend of working from an AECOM office (specifically mentioning Aldgate Tower in London as the primary location), a remote location, or potentially a client site as needed.

Office Location(s): The primary location is UK - London - Aldgate Tower. Edinburgh, United Kingdom, is also mentioned as an alternative location. This suggests flexibility for candidates based in these regions.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model is designed to foster collaboration. Office days are intended for team meetings, strategic discussions, and relationship building.

• Operational Tools & Technology: AECOM, as a global consultancy, will provide access to industry-standard digital tools, project management software, communication platforms (like Microsoft Teams), and potentially specialized design and engineering software.

• Team Interaction: Opportunities for interaction with the Water UK&I leadership team, project teams, and broader AECOM colleagues during office-based workdays.

Work Schedule: The standard working hours are 40 hours per week. The hybrid model provides flexibility, allowing individuals to balance their work and personal lives. However, given the senior nature of the role and client-facing responsibilities, occasional flexibility to meet project deadlines or client needs outside of standard hours may be required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid model is a key feature, emphasizing AECOM's commitment to work-life balance while ensuring effective collaboration and client engagement. The primary London location suggests a central hub for this role, with potential for regional engagement.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: A review of CVs and applications, likely by HR or a recruitment partner, to assess initial fit against the core requirements.

• Hiring Manager Interview: An in-depth discussion with the Managing Director of Water UK&I to assess strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, market knowledge, and cultural fit.

• Panel Interview: This may involve other Business Directors, Commercial Director, and potentially senior leaders from the contractor market or global teams. Expect questions focused on strategic planning, business development, commercial acumen, and team leadership.

• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to prepare a presentation or strategy document addressing a hypothetical challenge related to growing the D&B contractor market, or to present their approach to developing a growth plan. This is where portfolio elements would be crucial.

• Final Interview: Potentially with a more senior executive (e.g., UK&I CEO or a global head) for final approval.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Strategic Growth Plan Mock-up: Prepare a high-level outline of how you would approach developing a growth strategy for AECOM's D&B water business in the UK&I. Include key considerations, market analysis points, and strategic pillars.

• Business Development Success Stories: Select 2-3 key examples of major D&B projects or frameworks you have secured. Detail your role, the strategy employed, the challenges overcome, and the quantifiable business impact (e.g., contract value, revenue growth, market share increase).

• Leadership Philosophy & Team Building: Articulate your approach to leading senior teams, fostering talent, and driving performance. Use examples of how you've built or transformed teams.

• Commercial Acumen Demonstration: Be ready to discuss your experience with contract negotiation, risk management, and financial oversight of large projects. A hypothetical scenario might be presented.

• Client Relationship Management: Prepare an example of how you've built and maintained a critical client partnership, focusing on trust, value delivery, and long-term engagement.

Challenge Preparation:

• Market Analysis & Strategy: Be prepared to discuss current trends, challenges, and opportunities in the UK water sector, specifically concerning the Design & Build procurement model.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Practice articulating how you would build rapport and secure buy-in from key D&B contractors and internal AECOM stakeholders.

• Risk Identification & Mitigation: Think about the typical risks associated with D&B projects and how AECOM, in its role, can effectively manage them.

• Leadership Scenarios: Prepare for questions about how you handle underperforming teams, drive change, or manage conflicting priorities.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior leadership role like this will be rigorous, focusing on strategic insight, commercial impact, and leadership effectiveness. A well-prepared candidate will be able to draw upon concrete examples from their career to demonstrate these capabilities, particularly in relation to the Design & Build contractor market.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

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

• Project Management Software (e.g., MS Project, Primavera P6, Aconex): For overseeing the planning, execution, and monitoring of complex D&B projects.

• Collaboration Platforms (e.g., Microsoft Teams, Slack): For internal communication, team coordination, and knowledge sharing.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Business Intelligence Tools (e.g., Power BI, Tableau): For analyzing market data, project performance metrics, financial reports, and creating dashboards for senior management.

• ERP Systems (e.g., SAP, Oracle): For financial management, resource allocation, and operational reporting across the organization.

CRM & Automation:

• Bid Management Software: Tools used to manage the bidding process, document control, and collaboration during proposal development.

• Financial Planning & Analysis (FP&A) Tools: For budgeting, forecasting, and financial performance analysis related to D&B projects and the business unit.

• Data Analytics Platforms: For deeper dives into project cost data, risk profiles, and performance trends to inform strategic decisions.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools are not listed, a role of this caliber in a firm like AECOM will undoubtedly require proficiency with enterprise-level CRM, project management, financial reporting, and business intelligence tools. The emphasis on "data-led performance" suggests strong analytical capabilities and familiarity with relevant software.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Delivering a Better World: A core AECOM value that drives the purpose of the company's work, focusing on creating positive and tangible impacts through infrastructure.

• Integrity & Entrepreneurial Spirit: Encouraging ethical conduct, taking initiative, and driving innovation in business development and project delivery.

• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): A fundamental commitment to fostering a workplace that respects and values individual differences, promoting a culture of inclusion, and building diverse teams.

• Excellence & Collaboration: Striving for high performance in all aspects of work, from design and engineering to client service, while fostering strong teamwork and cross-functional cooperation.

• Safety First: An unwavering commitment to SH&E, ensuring the well-being of employees, clients, and the public.

Collaboration Style:

• Cross-Functional Integration: The role necessitates working closely with various internal departments (e.g., Commercial, Finance, other technical disciplines, global teams) to ensure integrated service delivery and successful project outcomes.

• Partnership-Oriented: A key aspect is building and maintaining strong, collaborative relationships with external partners, particularly D&B contractors.

• Data-Driven & Analytical: Decisions and strategies are expected to be informed by data and thorough analysis, fostering a culture of evidence-based decision-making.

• Continuous Improvement: An ongoing effort to refine processes, improve performance, and adapt to market changes, encouraging feedback and learning.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's values are deeply embedded in its corporate identity. For this role, demonstrating alignment with EDI, integrity, and a drive for excellence will be critical. The collaborative style required is typical of large, complex organizations aiming to leverage diverse expertise.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating a Matrixed Organization: Effectively influencing and collaborating across multiple business units, geographies, and functional areas to drive D&B growth.

• Intense Market Competition: The UK water sector, particularly for D&B projects, is highly competitive, requiring innovative strategies to win work.

• Balancing Growth Ambitions with Risk Management: Ensuring aggressive pursuit of opportunities doesn't compromise AECOM's commitment to SH&E and commercial prudence.

• Talent Acquisition & Retention: Attracting and retaining senior talent in a specialized field within a competitive job market.

• Adapting to Evolving Procurement Models: Staying ahead of changes in how water infrastructure projects are procured and delivered by contractors.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Leadership Development Programs: Access to AECOM's extensive leadership training and executive coaching.

• Industry Conferences & Forums: Opportunities to attend key water sector and D&B industry events to stay abreast of trends and network.

• Cross-Disciplinary Exposure: Working with diverse teams across AECOM can broaden understanding of different engineering and consulting disciplines.

• Strategic Project Involvement: Leading D&B initiatives for multi-billion-pound investment programs offers unparalleled learning in large-scale project delivery.

• Mentorship: Potential to be mentored by senior executives within AECOM or to mentor emerging talent within the organization.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are inherent to a senior leadership role in a large, dynamic industry. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering a clear path for career advancement and professional development within a global organization.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe your approach to developing and implementing a market growth strategy for Design & Build contractors in the UK water sector. What are the key pillars of your strategy?" (Focus on market analysis, stakeholder engagement, value proposition, and execution).

• "How would you foster and strengthen AECOM's partnerships with key D&B contractors and designers? Provide specific examples of successful partnership building in your past roles." (Emphasize trust, mutual benefit, and long-term collaboration).

Company & Culture Questions:

• "AECOM is committed to 'Delivering a Better World' and EDI. How would you embody these values in your leadership of the Design & Build water team?" (Connect personal leadership style and team management practices to company values).

• "Given AECOM's matrixed structure, how do you ensure effective collaboration and alignment across different business units and global teams to achieve your growth objectives?" (Demonstrate influencing skills and understanding of navigating complex organizations).

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Structure Your Narrative: For each key achievement (e.g., winning a major framework, growing revenue), clearly articulate the challenge, your strategic approach, the actions taken, and the quantifiable results.

• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use numbers and data to demonstrate the scale and impact of your work (e.g., contract value secured, revenue growth percentage, team size managed, cost savings achieved).

• Focus on "How": Don't just state what you did; explain how you did it. Detail your leadership style, strategic thinking, and problem-solving methodologies.

• Tailor to AECOM: Research AECOM's current strategic priorities, recent projects, and values. Weave these insights into your presentation to show you understand their business and how you can contribute.

• Prepare for Q&A: Anticipate questions about your strategies, challenges, and how you'd handle specific scenarios relevant to AECOM's business and the UK water D&B market.

📝 Enhancement Note: Candidates should prepare to discuss their strategic vision, commercial acumen, and leadership capabilities with concrete examples. The interview will assess not only their past achievements but also their future potential to drive growth and lead within AECOM's culture.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

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

• Curate Your CV: Ensure your resume clearly highlights your senior leadership experience, specific achievements in business development and commercial management within the water sector or similar infrastructure environments, and your expertise in Design & Build procurement models. Use keywords identified in this description.

• Prepare Your "Portfolio" Examples: Have 2-3 detailed case studies ready to discuss, showcasing your successes in market growth, contract acquisition, team leadership, and client relationship management. Quantify your achievements wherever possible.

• Research AECOM: Gain a deep understanding of AECOM's Water business, its key clients, recent projects, and its corporate values (especially EDI and sustainability), as well as the current landscape of the UK water sector and its procurement trends.

• Practice Your Narrative: Rehearse how you will articulate your experience and strategic approach, particularly in response to potential interview questions regarding market strategy, leadership, and commercial success.

⚠️ 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.

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