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 engineering and environmental solutions. With a strong commitment to delivering a better world, the company offers a collaborative culture and the opportunity to work on high-impact water projects in the UK&I region.
About This Role
As Head of Design & Build, you will lead AECOM's growth in the contractor-led water sector, driving market strategy and business development during a period of multi-billion-pound investment. This role sits on the Water UK&I leadership team and involves full accountability for expanding this key market, directly shaping the future of water infrastructure.
💡 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 tenders, and leading a strategy session with the Water leadership team. You'll also review project performance, mentor your team, and stay updated on industry trends to inform future growth initiatives.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For
- Proven track record in leading and growing water businesses, with deep sector knowledge of the UK&I water market and contractor landscape.
- Strong commercial acumen and experience in business development, including winning and delivering major design and build contracts.
- Leadership experience managing multidisciplinary teams and driving growth strategies in a matrix organisation.
- Highly motivated, organised, and proactive, with excellent stakeholder management and communication skills.
📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM
Highlight specific examples of growing a water business or contractor relationships, quantifying revenue growth or contract wins.
Emphasise your understanding of the current AMP8 investment cycle and how you've navigated similar periods of increased spending.
Tailor your CV to showcase leadership in design and build projects, not just traditional consulting roles.
Include evidence of strategic thinking, such as market entry plans or new service line launches in the water sector.
Align your personal values with AECOM's commitment to sustainability and delivering a better world in your cover letter.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your passion for the water sector and understanding of the contractor-led market dynamics.', 'Proven ability to drive growth and lead business development in a competitive environment.', 'Specific examples of building and leading high-performing teams in design and build contexts.', "Alignment with AECOM's mission of building sustainable legacies and innovative infrastructure."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → Review AECOM's recent water sector projects and press releases, especially design and build collaborations.
- → Understand the UK water industry's AMP8 investment plans and key players (e.g., Thames Water, Severn Trent, United Utilities).
- → Familiarise yourself with AECOM's sustainability framework and how it applies to water infrastructure.
- → Research AECOM's organisational structure for Water UK&I and key leaders in the team.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Focusing only on technical expertise without demonstrating commercial or strategic leadership.
- Overlooking the importance of contractor relationships and treating this as a traditional consulting role.
- Failing to show understanding of the current regulatory and investment environment in UK water.
📅 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!