Mastering project management with Henry Dustan
Project managers play a crucial role in orchestrating successful projects, and for those in the industry, learning from professionals like Henry Dustan can provide valuable insights. Henry Dustan, a Program Director at AtkinsRéalis in Saudi Arabia, has a wealth of experience that spans continents and diverse project landscapes. This blog explores his career, the projects he has been involved in, and the insights he offers to aspiring project managers.
A journey of experience
Henry's career began right after university in London, UK, where he joined a graduate training program with one of the UK’s leading main contractors and construction consultancies. This programme was pivotal to his career and laid the foundation for his ambitions as a project manager. Starting in main contracting fixed-price design and build, Henry quickly progressed into consultancy project management and later program management. His career path and opportunities afforded to him have provided invaluable exposure to many different facets of the global construction industry, shaping him into the professional he is today.
In 2011, Henry seized an opportunity to move to the United States of America as part of a small team establishing the North American business. This move sparked a love for travel for him and his family. Two years later, in 2013, Henry relocated to New Zealand to contribute to the monumental recovery and rebuild effort of Christchurch following the devastating earthquakes of 2011. This was a significant period in his life, both professionally and personally, as it left a lasting impact on him and his family. By 2016, Henry was presented with an opportunity to experience Middle Eastern mega-projects in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. With a growing family, they embarked on a three-year adventure that added another rich layer of experience to his career.
Currently, Henry has taken on a new challenge with AtkinsRéalis in Saudi Arabia, driven by the thrill of delivering some of the world's largest construction projects. Although leaving his family in New Zealand was a difficult decision, it has proven to be a rewarding professional adventure.
The MiSK City project
Henry has been with AtkinsRéalis for nearly 2 years, during which time he led a short commission in AlUla and now leads the AtkinsRéalis commission for MiSK City. This multi-phased, not-for-profit development is designed to serve as an incubation neighborhood for Saudi Arabian youth, aligning with the central themes of Saudi Vision 2030. The project is centered around creativity, sustainability, health and well-being, innovation, and smart cities.
MiSK City features over 400 mixed-use assets, including hotels, retail spaces, offices, leisure facilities, arts venues, education centers, and research and innovation facilities. Notably, the project holds LEED cities & Communities Gold Status and dedicates 50% of its site area to high-quality open space. It is well-connected to Riyadh Metro and Diriyah Gate through paths and cycle routes, emphasizing accessibility and sustainability.
Motivations and memorable experiences
Henry's decision to join AtkinsRéalis was influenced by connections from previous companies, and the presence of great projects and people played a significant role in his choice. One memorable experience with the company involved a volatile client in a remote location. Despite the challenging circumstances, Henry was impressed by how the senior leadership team rallied around the team, ultimately addressing the behavior and protecting their people. This experience reinforced his pride in being part of AtkinsRéalis and highlighted the company's commitment to its employees.
A culture of progress and opportunity
AtkinsRéalis is characterized by a culture that is progressive, ambitious, and inspiring. Henry appreciates the trust and autonomy afforded to employees, along with the assurance that senior leadership have their backs. The company's commitment to diversity and inclusion is evident, with respect, equality, and personal freedom forming the cornerstones of its ethos. Henry notes that the team comprises bright, talented, spirited, and ambitious individuals who share a passion for their work and contribute to the company's success in unique ways.
Technology as a driver of innovation
Technology plays a crucial role in driving innovation at AtkinsRéalis. While the MiSK City project is still in the process of technological advancement, the company's digital capabilities provide the internal expertise needed to achieve its goals. Henry emphasizes that technology is an integral part of the business, enabling the company to remain competitive and deliver exceptional results.
Advice for aspiring leaders
Henry offers valuable advice to aspiring leaders within AtkinsRéalis and the broader project management field. He emphasizes the importance of connections and visibility, encouraging professionals to demonstrate their abilities, grow their networks, and build trust with their teams.
Don’t be afraid to take new opportunities and challenge yourself, change is inevitable, and it drives growth (both professionally and personally).
The company recognizes talent, respects effort and commitment, and values behaviors aligned with its pillars. Aspiring leaders are encouraged to pursue their goals with dedication and effort, and to focus on ensuring the success of their teams, which in turn assures their success as leaders.
Henry Dustan's career at AtkinsRéalis is a testament to the company's commitment to providing meaningful experiences, fostering a supportive culture, and driving innovation through technology. Project managers can learn from his experiences and insights to enhance their own careers and contribute to the success of their organizations. For project managers seeking opportunities in Saudi Arabia, click here.
Interested? Find out more about life at AtkinsRéalis
Sign up to receive the latest content tailored to your interests
Our articles
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/29/2025
Summary
The future of electrical engineering is bright, and its influence on industries like automotive, energy, and wearable technology is growing exponentially. At AtkinsRéalis, electrical engineers are a
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/28/2025
Summary
If you are thinking of global career move to KSA, head on to read Sarah’s story on how she relocated to KSA for her work. Hi I’m Sarah, and I joined the AtkinsRéalis Graduate Program to work in T
Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/24/2025
Summary
At AtkinsRéalis, we’ve had a big part to play in shaping the skyline and infrastructure of the UAE. Having contributed for over 50 years, we’ve been proud supporters of the rapid growth and ambitio
Preview
GeneralContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/24/2025
Summary
Hello, I'm Amalia, a senior billing specialist at AtkinsRéalis in Romania. On my first day at the organization, I had mixed feelings— I felt a little fear but also confidence that I would be fine
Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/23/2025
Summary
Our journey began in Bangalore, India, as six professionals representing various disciplines from the Global Technology Centre (GTC) embarked on a month-long secondment to lead the Project off
by
Akash Kumar
Preview
AsiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/23/2025
Summary
Breaking into a career in civil engineering can feel like navigating uncharted territory. However, Venus Chan, a Graduate Engineer at AtkinsRéalis in Hong Kong, offers an inspiring example of h
Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/14/2025
Summary
The Middle East has become a magnet for ambitious professionals in recent years. This has seen the area emerge as a leader in construction, a sector which is projected to grow to $91.36bn by 2029.
Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/14/2025
Summary
The Middle East is full of opportunity. With its GDP up by 2.8% and NEOM creating 380,000 jobs, the ambition of the region is evident. We’re proud to be at the heart of its most innovative project
Preview
Middle EastContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/14/2025
Summary
Electrical engineering has a big part to play in the advancement of modern infrastructure. From smart watches to smart grids, its impact can be seen everywhere you look. By bringing greener practi
Preview
USAContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/13/2025
Summary
Structural engineering jobs offer an impactful and exciting path. The spaces that we live, move, and work in depend on the expertise of these skilled professionals. As a structural engineer, you’l
Preview
USAContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/13/2025
Summary
Transportation engineering jobs are on the up. Some of the biggest problems of today are being tackled in the transportation field. There’s a thirst for professionals looking to make a real impact
Preview
IndiaContent type
BlogsPublish date
01/09/2025
Summary
Hello, I'm Vijay, an HR leader at AtkinsRéalis in India When I first embarked on my professional journey, I couldn't have imagined the incredible path I would take at AtkinsRé
Related jobs
Salary
Location
London
Job Type
Flexible Working
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
London
Description
Become a vital member of our Project & Programme Services team, proudly taking on some of the world's most exciting and prestigious projects. Join us, and you'll be part of our genuinely collaborative
Reference
R-124507
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Author
Gautham ShettyAuthor
Gautham ShettySalary
Location
Glasgow
Job Type
Flexible Working
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Aberdeen
Edinburgh
Glasgow
Various locations
Description
Become a vital member of our Project & Programme Services team, proudly taking on some of the world's most exciting and prestigious projects. Join us, and you'll be part of our genuinely collaborative
Reference
R-124431
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Author
Gautham ShettyAuthor
Gautham ShettySalary
Location
Bedford
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Bedford
Description
Are you looking for a company that works on major engineering projects all over the world? Do you want to make a difference by improving the daily lives of communities worldwide? Are you seeking to jo
Reference
R-124399
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
London
Job Type
Flexible Working
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
London
Description
Become a vital member of our Project & Programme Services team, proudly taking on some of the world's most exciting and prestigious projects. Join us, and you'll be part of our genuinely collaborative
Reference
R-126300
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Author
Gautham ShettyAuthor
Gautham ShettySalary
Location
Abu Dhabi
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Abu Dhabi
Description
AtkinsRealis are looking for a Project Manager for a large Data Centre project in Abu Dhabi, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, Atkins
Reference
R-124938
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Tabouk
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Tabouk
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking for Design Director (Neom Site), in KSA.About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéalis is a world-class enginee
Reference
R-126003
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Tabouk
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Tabouk
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking for Design Director (Neom Site), in KSA.About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéalis is a world-class enginee
Reference
R-126002
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Tabouk
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Tabouk
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking for Design Director (Neom Site), in KSA.About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéalis is a world-class enginee
Reference
R-126001
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Tabouk
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Tabouk
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking to hire a Senior Director - Delivery to work on site in NEOM.NEOM’s The LINE is a groundbreaking initiative to redefine urban living by creating a zero-carbon, hyper-connected
Reference
R-126000
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Tabouk
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Tabouk
Description
About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéalis is a world-class engineering services and nuclear company dedicated to engineering a bet
Reference
R-125856
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
London
Job Type
Flexible Working
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
London
Description
Become a vital member of our Project & Programme Services team, proudly taking on some of the world's most exciting and prestigious projects. Join us, and you'll be part of our genuinely collaborative
Reference
R-124507
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Author
Gautham ShettyAuthor
Gautham ShettySalary
Location
Glasgow
Job Type
Flexible Working
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Aberdeen
Edinburgh
Glasgow
Various locations
Description
Become a vital member of our Project & Programme Services team, proudly taking on some of the world's most exciting and prestigious projects. Join us, and you'll be part of our genuinely collaborative
Reference
R-124431
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Author
Gautham ShettyAuthor
Gautham ShettySalary
Location
Bedford
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Bedford
Description
Are you looking for a company that works on major engineering projects all over the world? Do you want to make a difference by improving the daily lives of communities worldwide? Are you seeking to jo
Reference
R-124399
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
London
Job Type
Flexible Working
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
London
Description
Become a vital member of our Project & Programme Services team, proudly taking on some of the world's most exciting and prestigious projects. Join us, and you'll be part of our genuinely collaborative
Reference
R-126300
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Author
Gautham ShettyAuthor
Gautham ShettySalary
Location
Abu Dhabi
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Abu Dhabi
Description
AtkinsRealis are looking for a Project Manager for a large Data Centre project in Abu Dhabi, UAE.About AtkinsRéalisCreated by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, Atkins
Reference
R-124938
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Salary
Location
Tabouk
Job Type
Full Time
Career Area
Project management
Market
Project, programme & cost management
Category
Permanent
Location
Tabouk
Description
AtkinsRéalis is looking for Design Director (Neom Site), in KSA.About AtkinsRéalis Created by the integration of long-standing organizations dating back to 1911, AtkinsRéalis is a world-class enginee
Reference
R-126003
Expiry Date
01/01/0001
Equality, diversity and inclusion
We’re devoted to growing the diversity of our people, promoting an inclusive culture, providing everyone with an equal voice because simply put, it’s the right thing to do. Click to learn more.
Find out more