Job Description

Welcome to AtkinsRealis, Project and Programme Services. Join us as we continue to shape the future of Local Transport across the UK, you'll be part of a team delivering infrastructure that connects communities and drives regional growth. As part of our collaborative team, you'll be valued equally - and together, we'll deliver excellence for people and the environment. You'll also enjoy all the training and progression you need to take you through the glass ceiling.


Join our Complex Infrastructure team and progress your professional career on some of the industry's most exciting and newsworthy construction projects and use your business acumen in an organisation that has multiplied revenues in only a few years.


We have long term contracts across the infrastructure sector, with HS2, Network Rail, National Highways, Combined Authorities nationwide, energy, defence, airports and utility companies amongst our clients.


Our growth has been built on our excellent service and expertise of our people. Due to the significant growth and on-going success, we are looking for an Associate Director in our Local Transportation team, which is currently under-going a period of growth in this sector.


We are a multi award winning business. So, you'll be part of a team where our standards are high, as are the rewards. You'll support that continuous improvement and benefit from the expertise that comes with a global Project and Programme Management consultancy.


Work with us as an Associate Director and play a central role in making exciting and diverse projects a reality. Your projects and client base will range across the local transport sector, with in complex infrastructure.


You'll be trusted to lead your team, draw upon business practices and be a driving force for client care to grow our market share in Local Transport. Reporting to the Client Director you will be supported but empowered to develop business strategy to continue to deliver exceptional services for repeat clients, whilst actively scanning the horizon for new and exciting pursuits.

Your Purpose:

Strategic Leadership & Market Growth-

Support the Client Director for Local Transport, alongside the wider Transportation team, in driving leadership, business development, and account growth through our "Win-Work" strategy. Expand our presence and market share regionally in the Local Transport sector by building trusted relationships with existing and prospective clients, understanding their evolving needs, and shaping solutions that deliver real value. Maintain a strong understanding of regional and national transport policy, funding mechanisms, and investment priorities to inform client conversations and shape strategic pursuits. Foster long-term client relationships that support repeat business and contribute to our ambitious growth aspirations in the Local Transport sector.
Project & Programme Delivery-

Balance strategic leadership with active project delivery, maintaining a strong presence in billable work to support client outcomes and team performance. Act as project lead or Project Director on a diverse portfolio of local transport projects, ensuring delivery excellence and high standards of client satisfaction. Oversee project budgets and financial performance, ensuring commercial targets are met and exceeded. Provide technical oversight, including preparation, review, and quality assurance of deliverables. Advise clients on cost, programme, risk, and delivery strategy, acting as a trusted advisor.
Collaboration & Innovation-

Collaborate across the Transportation team and wider business to align with AtkinsRealis' strategic objectives and foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. Stay alert to emerging technologies and innovation in transport, working with subject matter experts to ensure clients benefit from cutting-edge thinking and solutions. Team Leadership & Business Development Lead and inspire multi-disciplinary teams, promoting collaboration and professional development. Take ownership of bid preparation and fee proposals, bringing strong bid writing and bid management capabilities to secure new opportunities. Build and maintain strong relationships with clients and stakeholders, ensuring clear communication and shared success. Champion performance improvement, challenge the status quo, and drive excellence in dynamic environments.

What can you bring:

A degree in civil engineering, Project management, Quantity Surveying or a related transportation discipline (or equivalent experience). Chartered or working towards chartership with APM, RICS, ICE, or similar. Proven experience delivering infrastructure projects and/or programmes across the full lifecycle, particularly within the Local Transport and Highways sectors. Demonstrated ability to lead and manage multi-disciplinary teams. Strong experience in business development, including identifying opportunities, shaping value propositions, and leading bid writing and bid management activities. Familiarity with best practice project and programme delivery methodologies, with the ability to tailor approaches to client needs. Experience delivering services in both public and private sector environments, with a strong understanding of local government structures and procurement processes. Excellent stakeholder engagement and relationship-building skills, with the ability to influence at senior levels. A strong client focus, with the ability to listen, understand, and respond to client needs with tailored, value-driven solutions. Awareness of how local transport integrates with wider agendas such as housing, placemaking, sustainability, and economic development. Commercially astute, with a track record of managing budgets, driving margin growth, and delivering value for clients. A passion for shaping sustainable transport and critical infrastructure that improves lives and strengthens communities.

Why work for AtkinsRealis?

Looking for a place where you can engineer a better future? AtkinsRealis is for you. Here, our digital-enabled approach transforms outcomes for people and the environment. You'll have a myriad of projects to choose from and endless possibilities for career growth. More responsibility, acclaimed training programmes and flexible working are part of our inclusive culture of prioritising diversity, health, and happiness.


Join our Project & Programme Services team and expand your career on some of the industry's most exciting and newsworthy construction projects - from Sizewell C to the world's tallest hotel, London's Heathrow Airport to Europe's first eco-friendly mosque. You'll enjoy invaluable exposure to international expertise as well as innovation in local niche areas. Communities are at the heart of our work and our people are proud to be working towards a Net Zero Carbon future and regenerating cities across the UK.

Security clearance:

This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. If this is necessary, it will be discussed with you at interview. The vetting process is delivered by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require candidates to provide proof of residency in the UK of 5 years or longer. If applying to this role please do not make reference to (in conversation) or include in your application or CV, details of any current or previously held security clearance.

We are committed to promoting a diverse and inclusive community - a place where we can all be ourselves, thrive and develop. To help embed inclusion for all, from day one, we offer a range of family friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee networks to support staff from different backgrounds. As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we value applications from all backgrounds, cultures and ability.

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