Application Guide
How to Apply for Head of Design & Build, Water UK&I
at AECOM
🏢 About AECOM
AECOM is a global infrastructure consulting firm that builds sustainable legacies through innovative solutions. With a strong focus on the water sector and a commitment to delivering a better world, they offer a collaborative environment where you can drive impactful projects and grow your career.
About This Role
As Head of Design & Build for Water UK&I, you will lead the growth of AECOM's work with Design and Build contractors, shaping the future of water infrastructure during a period of multi-billion-pound investment. You'll be part of the Water UK&I leadership team, driving market strategy and delivering sustainable solutions.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve reviewing pipeline opportunities with the business development team, meeting with key contractor clients to discuss upcoming bids, and strategizing with the Water UK&I leadership on market positioning. You'll also oversee ongoing design and build projects, ensuring delivery excellence and client satisfaction.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For
- Proven track record in leading and growing water businesses, with deep sector knowledge of the UK water industry.
- Strong business development and bidding skills, particularly in the contractor-led Design & Build space.
- Commercial acumen and experience in driving growth and market strategy for a large consultancy.
- Leadership experience in multidisciplinary teams, with ability to inspire and manage a distributed workforce.
📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM
Highlight specific examples of growing revenue or market share in the water Design & Build sector.
Tailor your CV to emphasize leadership roles within the UK water industry, especially with contractors.
Showcase your understanding of the current AMP8 investment cycle and how you've leveraged similar opportunities.
Include metrics on successful bids, client relationships, and team growth in your previous roles.
Demonstrate alignment with AECOM's sustainability and 'Delivering a Better World' ethos in your cover letter.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your experience in the UK water sector and specifically with Design & Build contractors.', 'Your strategic vision for growing this market during the upcoming investment period.', 'Your leadership style and ability to drive a high-performing team.', 'Your commercial success stories (revenue growth, winning key contracts).']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → AECOM's recent water projects and their approach to sustainability (e.g., net-zero commitments).
- → The UK water industry's AMP8 investment plans and key contractors.
- → AECOM's organizational structure and the Water UK&I leadership team.
- → AECOM's values and how they integrate 'Delivering a Better World' into projects.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic application without specific water sector or D&B experience.
- Focusing too much on technical design skills rather than commercial and leadership acumen.
- Neglecting to mention how you've driven growth or won business in a similar role.
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!