Insights Here's why I couldn't stay away from AtkinsRéalis

Meet Luke Brown, Associate Director at AtkinsRéalis in the UK. He spent six years with us between 2015 and 2021 when he opted to experience life with an SME. He shares what brought him home to the Project & Programme Services team:

Starting my career at AtkinsRéalis.

I joined what was then Faithful+Gould in May 2015 as a Graduate Project Manager. I worked under some amazing mentors, putting my hand up for many opportunities to deliver exciting projects across sectors and procurement routes. I then worked on a key local authority account, mobilizing supply chains to help bolster our in-house offering.

"Agreeing fee percentages upfront for works and understanding the importance of pass-through revenue was something I particularly enjoyed."
—Luke Brown, Associate Director, AtkinsRéalis

Developing into a well-rounded professional

I was also heavily involved in the central government sector, again working with a first-class team from across the regions. It was superb to start expanding my network within the organization and meet like-minded people who I would have never come into contact with. It was a challenging account due to the work volume, but it helped develop me.

Leaving to explore the world of SMEs.

In early 2021, I ventured into establishing a Kent branch for a building surveying practice. This journey included everything from sourcing an office to recruiting a team. Balancing delivery, invoicing, and payments was pivotal to maintaining a positive cash flow. This sounds so obvious, but it is a perspective that can be lost in big corporations. This role, though challenging, offered insights into the nuanced dynamics of small business management. I loved my time there and am still very close to the business partners.

So why did I come ‘back’ to what is now AtkinsRéalis?

At AtkinsRéalis, we work on transformational projects. Making a difference for end users and communities is what I enjoy most about the role. It's easy to get so focused on the day-to-day tasks involved in delivery and not zoom out to see the real impact our work can have. So, when offered the opportunity to lead project management in the Tunbridge Wells office, I couldn't say no and decided to return to the organization. Everyone was so welcoming on my return that it reaffirmed my decision.

"Not everyone can say that their work makes such a tangible difference. And this should not be forgotten."
—Luke

Delivering better

My return also coincided with the start of AtkinsRéalis' largest graduate intake. In the last four months, we've already recruited two new starters who have joined at Assistant Project Manager level. And together, the Project & Programme Services team has submitted bids to deliver over £54m in construction works!

"AtkinsRéalis is such a diverse organization with so many opportunities, now more than ever. It really is an exciting place to be. If you want to get involved or have a passion for something, I encourage you to put yourself forward, and you will be supported."
—Luke

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