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 Basingstoke, United Kingdom also listed as an alternative)

Job Type: Full-time

Category: Infrastructure Consulting / Engineering Operations

Date Posted: 2026-04-13

Experience Level: Senior Leadership (10+ years)

Remote Status: Hybrid

🚀 Role Summary

• Drive strategic growth and market expansion for AECOM's Design & Build offerings within the UK & Ireland water sector, focusing on contractor-led projects.

• Provide senior leadership and commercial insight to a significant business unit, influencing strategic direction and operational execution.

• Oversee the development and implementation of market strategies, ensuring alignment with AECOM's global and regional objectives.

• Manage key relationships with major water sector contractors, fostering strong partnerships to secure high-value opportunities.

• Champion a culture of operational excellence, client satisfaction, and continuous improvement across all project lifecycles.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned at a senior leadership level within AECOM's Water UK&I business, requiring a strategic mindset focused on business development, market penetration, and operational oversight for a key service line (Design & Build). The emphasis on "contractor-led" work indicates a focus on project delivery models where AECOM supports or leads design and construction phases for contractors, rather than traditional client-led consultancy.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

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

• Identify, monitor, and track new business opportunities in collaboration with Client Account Managers and Business Directors, ensuring proactive engagement and timely entry 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.

• Cultivate and maintain robust partnerships with key water sector contractors and designers to strategically pursue high-value design and build opportunities.

• Drive exceptional client satisfaction by actively engaging with contractors, monitoring performance, and implementing improvement actions informed by feedback mechanisms like Net Promoter Score (NPS).

• Lead the development and implementation of a contractor-led market growth plan aligned with the Water UK&I Strategic Plan.

• Foster a positive and inclusive work environment that exemplifies 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, including leading recruitment for strategic and senior roles within the Design & Build function.

• Partner with teams across Europe and globally to deliver complex, multidisciplinary projects and programmes, effectively demonstrating AECOM's work-winning capabilities.

• Assume accountability for major contractor-led projects and programmes through rigorous bid governance and the Go/No-Go process, while providing support for smaller pursuits.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities highlight a dual focus on strategic business growth (market strategy, opportunity identification, partnerships) and operational oversight (project governance, client satisfaction, SH&E, resource planning). The emphasis on "contractor-led" implies a need for strong commercial acumen and understanding of project delivery models prevalent in the construction and infrastructure sectors.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education: While not explicitly stated, a Bachelor's or Master's degree in a relevant engineering discipline (e.g., Civil, Environmental, Mechanical) or a related field is typically expected for senior leadership roles in this sector. Advanced business or management qualifications would be advantageous.

Experience: Significant senior leadership experience within a matrixed multinational consultancy, a major contractor, or a key water-sector supplier is mandatory. This includes a proven track record in building and leading high-performing leadership and multidisciplinary project teams.

Required Skills:

• Senior Leadership Experience: Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire teams within a complex organizational structure.

• UK & Ireland Water Market Expertise: In-depth understanding of market dynamics, key players (contractors, designers), and socio-political/economic drivers.

• Business Development & Growth Strategy: Proven success in identifying, pursuing, and securing major frameworks and new opportunities.

• Commercial and Contract Management: Extensive expertise in commercial negotiations, contract administration, and risk management.

• Project Governance & Bid Management: Experience in bid leadership, Go/No-Go processes, and oversight of major projects.

• Client Relationship Management: Strong capabilities in building and maintaining relationships with contractor clients.

• Team Leadership & Talent Development: Ability to build, lead, coach, and develop diverse, multidisciplinary teams.

• Health & Safety (SH&E) Management: Solid attention to detail with experience in delivering effective health and safety initiatives.

• Strategic Planning & Implementation: Ability to translate strategic vision into actionable plans and drive execution.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in Design & Build delivery models.

• Familiarity with European water sector markets beyond the UK&I.

• Strong financial acumen and P&L management experience.

• Advanced understanding of digital solutions and innovation in the water sector.

📝 Enhancement Note: The qualifications emphasize a blend of strategic leadership, deep market knowledge, commercial acumen, and team management. The requirement for "senior leadership experience within a matrixed multinational consultancy, contractor, or key water-sector supplier" points towards candidates who understand complex organizational structures and multi-stakeholder environments, common in large infrastructure projects.

📊 Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

• Strategic Growth Plans: Examples of developed and implemented market growth strategies, specifically within the water or infrastructure sectors, demonstrating impact on revenue and market share.

• Business Development Case Studies: Detailed accounts of securing major frameworks, winning significant design and build contracts, or expanding existing client relationships, highlighting the approach, challenges, and outcomes.

• Project Oversight Examples: Documentation illustrating experience in bid governance, Go/No-Go decision-making processes, and oversight of large-scale, multidisciplinary design and build projects.

• Client Relationship Management Frameworks: Evidence of strategies or frameworks used to build and maintain strong, long-term client (contractor) relationships, including client satisfaction metrics and improvement initiatives.

• Team Leadership & Development Models: Examples of how leadership teams were built, managed, and developed, including approaches to talent acquisition, coaching, and fostering EDI.

Process Documentation:

• Market Strategy Development: Showcase the process for analyzing market trends, identifying opportunities, and formulating strategic plans for market penetration in the contractor-led space.

• Opportunity Tracking & Pipeline Management: Demonstrate a systematic approach to identifying, monitoring, and tracking new business opportunities within a CRM or project management system.

• Bid Governance & Risk Assessment: Detail the process for evaluating bid opportunities, conducting Go/No-Go assessments, and managing risks associated with large infrastructure projects.

• Client Satisfaction Measurement & Improvement: Outline the methodology for measuring client satisfaction (e.g., NPS) and implementing feedback-driven improvement actions.

• Resource Planning & Recruitment Process: Illustrate the process for forecasting resource needs and leading recruitment for strategic and senior roles.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a senior leadership role like this, a portfolio would likely focus on strategic impact and leadership rather than granular process documentation. It should demonstrate a track record of driving business growth, managing complex projects, and leading teams, with an emphasis on quantifiable results and strategic decision-making.

💵 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: Based on senior leadership roles in infrastructure consulting in London, UK, with significant P&L responsibility and market growth targets, the estimated salary range for this position would likely be between £100,000 - £150,000 per annum, potentially higher for exceptional candidates with a proven track record of exceeding targets. This estimate considers the experience level, seniority, geographic location (London), and the strategic importance of the role within AECOM's Water UK&I business.

Benefits:

• Flexible Hybrid Working Model: Offers a balance between remote and office-based work to support work-life integration.

• Career Development Opportunities: Access to ongoing training, professional development programs, and potential for advancement within AECOM.

• Technical Practice Networks: Opportunities to engage with subject matter experts across AECOM's global network.

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

• Volunteering Days: Encouragement and paid time off for engaging in community service.

• Comprehensive Health & Well-being Programs: Designed to support the diverse needs of employees and their families.

• Pension Scheme: Standard retirement savings plan.

• Life Assurance: Financial protection for beneficiaries.

Working Hours: Standard full-time hours are typically around 37.5-40 hours per week, with flexibility offered through the hybrid working model. The role demands significant commitment due to its strategic and leadership nature.

📝 Enhancement Note: The salary estimate is based on industry benchmarks for senior leadership positions in large engineering and infrastructure consulting firms in London, considering the specific responsibilities related to business growth and market leadership in the UK water sector. The benefits listed are typical for large multinational corporations, with specific emphasis on professional development and work-life balance initiatives.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏢 Company Culture

Industry: Infrastructure Consulting & Engineering. AECOM operates as a global leader in providing professional services throughout the project lifecycle, from advisory and design to construction management. The company's work spans transportation, buildings, water, new energy, and environmental sectors.

Company Size: AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm with over 50,000 employees globally, indicating a large, established, and complex organizational structure. This size offers extensive resources, global reach, and diverse career opportunities, but also necessitates strong navigation skills within a matrixed environment.

Founded: AECOM was founded in 1990 (as AECOM Technology Corporation), though its origins trace back much further through predecessor companies. This long history signifies stability and deep expertise in the infrastructure sector.

Team Structure:

• The Head of Design & Build will report directly to the Managing Director of Water UK&I, placing them within the Water UK&I leadership team.

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

• This indicates a matrixed reporting structure where the role has direct leadership responsibilities but also requires significant cross-functional alignment and influence across various business units and geographies.

Methodology:

• Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on using data to inform performance improvements, client satisfaction insights (NPS), and strategic planning.

• Collaborative Project Delivery: AECOM promotes working collaboratively across multidisciplinary teams and global regions to deliver complex projects.

• Client-Centric Approach: Focus on delivering exceptional client satisfaction and building strong, long-term partnerships.

• Commitment to Sustainability and ESG: AECOM prioritizes delivering a better world through sustainable solutions and adherence to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.

• Emphasis on SH&E: A strong culture and rigorous implementation of Safety, Health & Environment policies are paramount.

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

📝 Enhancement Note: The company context highlights AECOM as a global powerhouse in infrastructure consulting. The "matrixed multinational" structure is a key characteristic that candidates must be comfortable navigating. The emphasis on collaboration, client satisfaction, and SH&E aligns with typical expectations for senior roles in engineering and construction firms.

📈 Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a Senior Leadership / Director level within the operations and business development function of AECOM's Water sector. It is a P&L-responsible or high-impact strategic growth role, akin to a Business Unit Head or Director of a significant service line. The scope involves market strategy, business development, client relationship management, and oversight of project delivery within a specific segment (Design & Build contractors).

Reporting Structure: The role reports directly to the Managing Director of Water UK&I, indicating a high level of visibility and direct involvement in senior leadership discussions. The collaborative requirements mean reporting lines will be fluid, requiring strong influence and partnership skills across various AECOM divisions and global teams.

Operations Impact: The Head of Design & Build has a direct and significant impact on AECOM's revenue generation and market position within the UK&I water sector, particularly in the growing contractor-led market. Success in this role directly contributes to AECOM's overall growth, profitability, and reputation as a leading infrastructure consultancy. The role is pivotal in shaping AECOM's strategy for engaging with a critical segment of the market.

Growth Opportunities:

• Leadership Advancement: Potential to progress to higher leadership roles within the Water UK&I business, potentially to Managing Director or equivalent positions, or to lead broader business lines.

• Strategic Influence: Opportunity to shape AECOM's long-term strategy for the water sector and its engagement with the design and build market across Europe.

• Global Exposure: Involvement with global teams and initiatives can lead to international career prospects.

• Specialization & Expertise: Deepen expertise in complex infrastructure delivery models and client relationship management within the water industry.

• Mentorship & Development: Opportunity to mentor emerging leaders and contribute to AECOM's talent pipeline through leadership recruitment and development.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is a significant career step, offering high-level strategic responsibility and direct impact on business growth. The growth opportunities are geared towards senior executive progression within a global organization, emphasizing leadership development and strategic influence.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is designated as Hybrid, meaning employees will split their time between working remotely and from an AECOM office. This model aims to balance flexibility with the need for in-person collaboration, team building, and client engagement.

Office Location(s): Primary location is listed as UK - London - Aldgate Tower. An alternative location mentioned is Basingstoke, United Kingdom. Employees are expected to work from these locations as part of the hybrid arrangement. Access to these major hubs provides good transport links and proximity to clients and talent pools.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Environment: The hybrid model encourages collaboration through scheduled office days, team meetings, and project workshops, fostering idea exchange and team cohesion.

• Access to Resources: AECOM offices are likely equipped with modern facilities, technology, and support services necessary for efficient work, including project management software and communication tools.

• Cross-Functional Interaction: The role necessitates frequent interaction with various internal teams (e.g., project managers, engineers, commercial teams, global leads) both virtually and in person, promoting a dynamic and interconnected work experience.

• Client Engagement: Opportunities to meet with contractor clients at their offices or project sites will be part of the role, depending on project requirements and client preferences.

Work Schedule: The standard work week is approximately 40 hours. The hybrid arrangement offers flexibility in managing work hours and location, allowing individuals to structure their week to optimize productivity and personal commitments. However, given the senior leadership and client-facing nature of the role, significant dedication and responsiveness will be required.

📝 Enhancement Note: The hybrid work model is a key feature, balancing flexibility with the operational needs of a senior leadership role that requires both strategic thinking and active engagement with teams and clients. The London and Basingstoke locations are significant operational hubs for AECOM in the UK.

📄 Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: Likely conducted by HR or a recruitment specialist to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.

• Hiring Manager Interview: A detailed discussion with the Managing Director of Water UK&I to assess strategic thinking, leadership capabilities, market knowledge, and alignment with the role's objectives.

• Panel Interview: May involve other senior leaders from AECOM (e.g., Business Directors, Commercial Director) to evaluate broader stakeholder management skills, commercial acumen, and team leadership potential. A presentation on market strategy or a case study might be required here.

• Final Interview/Executive Review: Potentially with a more senior executive within AECOM to confirm suitability for the leadership role and discuss long-term career alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

• Strategic Impact Focus: Showcase your strategic vision and ability to translate it into tangible business growth. Highlight market entry strategies, growth plans, and their measurable outcomes.

• Leadership & Team Building: Provide examples of how you have built, led, and developed high-performing teams, emphasizing your approach to talent management, coaching, and fostering inclusion.

• Commercial Acumen & Deal-Winning: Present case studies of successful major framework wins, significant contract negotiations, and pipeline management, detailing your role and the commercial impact.

• Client Relationship Management: Demonstrate your ability to build and sustain strong partnerships with contractors, illustrating how you've driven client satisfaction and loyalty.

• Presentation Clarity: Structure your portfolio clearly, using concise language and compelling visuals where appropriate. Be prepared to walk through your achievements and explain your strategic rationale.

Challenge Preparation:

• Market Strategy Presentation: Prepare a concise presentation outlining your vision for growing AECOM's Design & Build contractor business in the UK water sector, including key challenges, opportunities, and strategic initiatives.

• Leadership Scenario Questions: Be ready to discuss how you would handle typical leadership challenges, such as motivating a diverse team, resolving interdepartmental conflicts, or driving cultural change.

• Commercial Problem-Solving: Anticipate questions related to contract negotiation strategies, risk mitigation in large projects, and P&L management.

• EDI and SH&E Commitment: Be prepared to articulate your commitment to and experience in promoting Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and robust Safety, Health & Environment practices.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process for a senior leadership role will be rigorous, focusing on strategic thinking, leadership presence, and demonstrable business impact. A well-curated portfolio showcasing leadership in growth, client management, and complex project delivery is crucial.

🛠 Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

• CRM Systems: Experience with enterprise-level CRM platforms (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics) for opportunity tracking, pipeline management, and client relationship management.

• Project Management Software: Familiarity with project management tools (e.g., Microsoft Project, Primavera P6, Asana, Monday.com) for oversight of project timelines, resources, and deliverables.

• Financial Management Systems: Understanding of financial reporting and P&L management tools, likely integrated within AECOM's enterprise resource planning (ERP) system.

• Collaboration Platforms: Proficiency in tools like Microsoft Teams, Slack, Zoom for internal and external communication, virtual meetings, and team collaboration.

Analytics & Reporting:

• Business Intelligence Tools: Experience with BI platforms (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) for analyzing business performance metrics, market trends, and client satisfaction data.

• Reporting Dashboards: Ability to interpret and leverage data from various dashboards to inform strategic decisions and track progress against KPIs.

CRM & Automation:

• Sales Automation Tools: Understanding of how CRM and sales enablement tools can automate processes and improve sales efficiency.

• ERP Systems: Likely experience with large-scale ERP systems for integrated business management.

📝 Enhancement Note: While specific tools aren't listed, the role implies a need for proficiency in enterprise-level CRM, project management, financial reporting, and business intelligence tools common in large multinational consultancies. The focus is on leveraging these systems for strategic oversight and operational efficiency.

👥 Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

• Integrity: Upholding high ethical standards in all business dealings and project execution.

• Entrepreneurial Spirit: Encouraging innovation, proactivity, and a willingness to take calculated risks to drive growth.

• Pioneering Mindset: Embracing new ideas, technologies, and approaches to solve complex infrastructure challenges.

• Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI): A strong commitment to fostering a respectful, inclusive workplace where diverse talents are valued and nurtured.

• Safety, Health & Environment (SH&E): Prioritizing the well-being of employees, communities, and the environment in all operations.

• Client Focus: Dedication to delivering exceptional value and exceeding client expectations.

• Collaboration: Working effectively across teams, disciplines, and geographies to achieve shared goals.

Collaboration Style:

• Matrixed Collaboration: Requires strong interpersonal and influencing skills to work effectively across different business units, geographies, and functional teams within AECOM.

• Cross-Functional Integration: Emphasis on seamless integration between design, build, commercial, and client management functions to ensure cohesive project delivery.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Proactive and transparent communication with internal stakeholders (leadership, project teams) and external stakeholders (contractors, designers) is essential.

• Feedback Culture: Encouraging open feedback for continuous improvement in processes, client satisfaction, and team performance.

📝 Enhancement Note: AECOM's culture appears to be a blend of a large, established corporation with a drive for innovation and employee well-being. The emphasis on integrity, EDI, and SH&E reflects industry best practices and corporate responsibility. The collaborative style is critical given the matrixed structure.

⚡ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

• Navigating a Matrixed Organization: Effectively influencing and collaborating across multiple business units and global teams without direct authority can be challenging.

• Driving Growth in a Competitive Market: The UK water sector is competitive; securing new business and growing market share requires continuous innovation and strong client relationships.

• Balancing Strategic Vision with Operational Execution: Ensuring that strategic growth plans are effectively implemented at the project level, meeting both commercial and client expectations.

• Resource Management: Forecasting and securing the right talent for specialized Design & Build roles in a dynamic market can be demanding.

• Maintaining SH&E and EDI Standards: Continuously promoting and embedding these critical values across all operations, especially under pressure to deliver projects.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

• Advanced Leadership Training: Access to AECOM's internal leadership development programs and potentially external executive coaching.

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

• Cross-Business Unit Exposure: Gaining broader experience by working on projects or initiatives that span different AECOM business lines or geographies.

• Mentorship Programs: Participating as a mentor or mentee to foster leadership skills and career growth.

• Exposure to Global Best Practices: Learning from and contributing to AECOM's worldwide operations and expertise in infrastructure design and build.

📝 Enhancement Note: The challenges are typical for senior leadership roles in large, complex organizations, focusing on strategic execution, stakeholder management, and navigating organizational dynamics. The growth opportunities are substantial, offering pathways to executive leadership and broad industry exposure.

💡 Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

• Market Growth Strategy: "How would you approach developing and implementing a 3-5 year growth strategy for AECOM's contractor-led Design & Build business in the UK water sector? What are the key pillars and metrics for success?" (Prepare to discuss market analysis, competitive landscape, partnership strategies, and resource planning.)

• Client Partnership Development: "Describe your approach to building and strengthening long-term partnerships with major water sector contractors. How do you ensure AECOM remains a preferred partner?" (Focus on communication, value proposition, problem-solving, and client satisfaction.)

• Leadership and Team Building: "How do you foster a high-performance culture within multidisciplinary teams, particularly in a hybrid work environment? How do you ensure commitment to SH&E and EDI?" (Provide examples of your leadership style, team motivation techniques, and commitment to corporate values.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• AECOM's Values: "How do you see your leadership style aligning with AECOM's values of Integrity, Entrepreneurial Spirit, Pioneering Mindset, EDI, and SH&E?" (Research AECOM's values thoroughly and prepare specific examples.)

• Matrixed Organization Navigation: "Describe a time you had to influence stakeholders across different departments or regions to achieve a business objective. What was your strategy and the outcome?" (Highlight your collaboration and influencing skills.)

• Operational Excellence: "How do you ensure operational excellence and client satisfaction in complex infrastructure projects? What role does data play in your approach?" (Discuss your experience with process improvement, performance metrics, and data-driven decision-making.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

• Quantify Impact: For each project or initiative in your portfolio, clearly state the quantifiable results (e.g., revenue growth percentage, contract value secured, efficiency improvements, client satisfaction scores).

• Structure Your Narrative: Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for case studies, focusing on your specific role and contributions.

• Strategic Rationale: Be prepared to explain the strategic thinking behind your decisions and actions, linking them back to business objectives and market opportunities.

• Visual Aids: Use concise slides or visual aids to present key data, market insights, and strategic frameworks. Keep text minimal.

• Tailor to AECOM: Demonstrate an understanding of AECOM's business, its challenges, and how your experience directly addresses the needs of this Head of Design & Build role.

📝 Enhancement Note: Interview preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic leadership, commercial acumen, and a deep understanding of the water sector and contractor market. Be ready to articulate your vision and back it up with concrete examples of past successes.

📌 Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

• Submit your application through the application link on AECOM's careers portal.

• Curate Your Operations Portfolio: Prepare a concise portfolio that highlights your strategic leadership in business development, market growth, and managing complex infrastructure projects within the water sector. Focus on quantifiable achievements and demonstrate your experience with contractor-led delivery models.

• Optimize Your Resume: Tailor your resume to emphasize senior leadership experience, commercial management expertise, P&L responsibility, and success in winning and delivering major frameworks and contracts. Integrate keywords such as "Design & Build," "Water Sector," "Contractor Market," "Strategic Planning," and "Business Development."

• Prepare for Strategic Interviews: Anticipate questions about market strategy, client relationship management, team leadership, and your approach to driving growth in a competitive landscape. Practice articulating your vision for AECOM's Design & Build business.

• Research AECOM: Thoroughly understand AECOM's business, its values, its position in the water sector, and recent projects. Be prepared to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals and culture, particularly regarding EDI and SH&E.

⚠️ 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.