Application Guide

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

at AECOM

🏢 About AECOM

AECOM is a global infrastructure firm committed to delivering a better world through innovative and sustainable solutions. With a strong focus on the water sector, the company is at the forefront of multi-billion-pound investments in water, wastewater, and stormwater infrastructure. Working at AECOM means being part of a collaborative team that values technical expertise and environmental stewardship.

About This Role

As Head of Design & Build, you will lead the growth of AECOM's work with Design and Build contractors in the Water UK&I market. This role places you on the Water UK&I leadership team, where you will drive market strategy, business development, and bidding efforts. Your leadership will directly support the delivery of sustainable water solutions during a period of unprecedented investment.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with reviewing pipeline opportunities and meeting with the Water UK&I leadership team to align on strategy. You could then join a call with a key contractor to discuss a new bid, followed by internal sessions to mentor your team on proposal development. Afternoons might involve analyzing market trends or preparing for a client presentation, all while ensuring alignment with AECOM's sustainability goals.

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🎯 Who AECOM Is Looking For

  • Proven track record in leading and growing water businesses, particularly in the contractor-led space.
  • Strong commercial insight and experience in business development, bidding, and delivering large-scale water projects.
  • Highly motivated, organized, and proactive leader with deep sector knowledge in water infrastructure.
  • Ability to build and maintain relationships with Design and Build contractors and key stakeholders.

📝 Tips for Applying to AECOM

1

Highlight specific examples of how you have grown a water business or led successful bids in the contractor space.

2

Demonstrate your understanding of the UK water sector's regulatory and investment landscape, especially AMP cycles.

3

Tailor your CV to emphasize leadership, commercial success, and sector expertise over generic project management.

4

Mention any experience with Design and Build contracts or working with contractors like Kier, Galliford Try, etc.

5

Show enthusiasm for AECOM's commitment to sustainability and how your work aligns with building legacies.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your proven ability to drive growth and market strategy in the water contractor-led space.', 'Specific examples of successful business development and bidding outcomes in water infrastructure.', "Your leadership style and how it aligns with AECOM's collaborative and innovative culture.", 'Understanding of the current multi-billion-pound investment in the UK water sector and your vision for capturing opportunities.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Familiarize yourself with AECOM's recent water projects and sustainability initiatives, especially in the UK&I region.
  • → Understand the current AMP (Asset Management Period) cycle and key regulatory drivers like Ofwat's Price Review.
  • → Research AECOM's competitors in the water design and build space (e.g., Jacobs, Mott MacDonald, Stantec).
  • → Look into AECOM's company values and how they promote innovation and legacy-building in infrastructure.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 How would you develop and execute a growth strategy for Design and Build contractors in the UK water market?
2 Describe a time you led a major bid for a water infrastructure project and what you learned from the outcome.
3 How do you build and maintain relationships with contractors and other key stakeholders?
4 What are the biggest challenges and opportunities in the water sector over the next 5-10 years?
5 How do you foster a collaborative and high-performing team culture in a remote or hybrid environment?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Don't focus solely on technical design experience; this role is about business growth and leadership.
  • Avoid generic applications; show specific knowledge of the water contractor market and AECOM's role in it.
  • Don't underestimate the importance of commercial acumen; provide concrete examples of revenue growth or bid wins.

📅 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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