Application Guide

How to Apply for Head of Design & Build, Water UK&I

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM is a global infrastructure consulting firm committed to delivering sustainable legacies through innovative environmental and infrastructure solutions. Their water business (circa 600 people) partners with clients to design assets that protect public health and enhance the environment, placing them at the forefront of the UK's multi-billion-pound water investment cycle.

About This Role

As Head of Design & Build, you will lead AECOM's growth strategy in the contractor-led water market, driving business development and market expansion. This role sits on the Water UK&I leadership team, giving you direct influence over how AECOM shapes the future of water infrastructure through partnerships with Design and Build contractors.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might involve virtual meetings with contractor clients to discuss upcoming tender opportunities, reviewing market intelligence reports with the business development team, and collaborating with AECOM's technical leads to align proposals with client needs. You'd also spend time on strategic planning, tracking pipeline progress, and representing AECOM at industry webinars or networking events.

🚀 Application Tools

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🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • Proven track record in leading and growing water businesses, with specific experience in contractor-led (Design & Build) markets.
  • Deep sector knowledge of the UK water industry, including regulatory frameworks, AMP cycles, and key contractor relationships.
  • Strong commercial acumen and ability to develop and execute market strategies that drive revenue growth.
  • Leadership experience in multidisciplinary teams, with a focus on collaboration and innovation.

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Tailor your CV to highlight specific experience with Design & Build contractors in the water sector, including contract values and project outcomes.

2

Demonstrate your understanding of the UK water industry's current investment cycle (AMP7/8) and how AECOM can add value.

3

Quantify your impact in previous roles—e.g., revenue growth percentages, successful bids, or new client acquisitions.

4

Mention any experience in remote leadership or managing distributed teams, as the role is remote.

5

Research AECOM's recent water projects and sustainability initiatives to show genuine interest and alignment.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Emphasize your leadership in driving growth within contractor-led water markets and your strategic vision for expanding this area.', 'Highlight your commercial success in winning and delivering Design & Build projects.', "Align your experience with AECOM's mission of building sustainable legacies and their focus on innovative water solutions.", 'Showcase your ability to collaborate with cross-functional teams and influence senior stakeholders.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review AECOM's recent press releases and case studies on water infrastructure projects, especially those involving Design & Build.
  • → Understand the UK water industry's AMP7 and upcoming AMP8 cycles, including key investment priorities.
  • → Research AECOM's sustainability goals and how they integrate into water projects.
  • → Identify the major Design & Build contractors in the UK water sector and AECOM's existing relationships with them.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you develop and execute a market strategy to grow AECOM's Design & Build water business?
2 Describe a time you successfully won a major Design & Build contract. What was your approach?
3 How do you stay informed about the UK water industry's regulatory and investment landscape?
4 Given the remote nature of this role, how would you build and maintain relationships with contractors and internal teams?
5 What are the biggest challenges and opportunities for Design & Build in the water sector over the next 5 years?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't focus solely on technical design experience; this role is about business development and strategy.
  • Avoid generic statements about 'passion for water' without demonstrating specific sector knowledge.
  • Don't overlook the remote aspect—failing to address how you'll lead a team and build relationships virtually could be a red flag.

📅 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:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to AECOM!

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