insights Shaping the future of business strategy & development

In the fast-paced world of consultancy, architecture, and project management, the need for forward-thinking leadership and innovative strategies has never been more critical. At AtkinsRéalis, we are proud to introduce Farah Al Shather as our new Regional Director of Business Development & Strategy for our Planning, Design & Engineering segment. Her extensive experience and unique vision will be key in steering our company toward a future filled with opportunities and sustainable growth.

Farah's career is a testament to her dedication to exploring unconventional approaches and thinking outside the box. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Business and Economics from Stockholm University, she began her professional journey at a software company, managing client accounts across the region. Her experiences ignited a passion for the dynamic environment of Dubai, leading her to relocate to the United Arab Emirates in 2016.

Over the years, Farah has honed her skills in business development across various industries, including architecture and engineering consulting. Her strategic mindset and ability to cultivate strong client relationships have been instrumental in her success, particularly within Saudi Arabia and the GCC. 

Since joining AtkinsRéalis in June 2024, Farah has embraced her role with enthusiasm. She is committed to strengthening and expanding our client relationships, gathering valuable feedback, and driving forward our strategic goals. Her insights into the unique needs of our clients allow her to offer tailored solutions that align with their business practices.

One of Farah's key strengths is her ability to demonstrate our added value to clients. She focuses on showcasing how AtkinsRéalis can contribute to their success and ensure the successful execution of their projects. This client-centric approach positions us as a trusted partner in the industry.

AtkinsRéalis thrives on a culture of collaboration, innovation, and forward-thinking. Farah describes our company culture as one that encourages open dialogue and the sharing of ideas—essential components in our ever-evolving industry. The emphasis on teamwork creates a sense of belonging and enables us to leverage diverse skills and perspectives, enhancing our problem-solving capabilities.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in various initiatives and policies designed to create a welcoming environment for everyone. AtkinsRéalis actively recruits from diverse talent pools, provides training on unconscious bias, and supports employee resource groups that champion underrepresented communities. We believe that diverse perspectives are valuable and that everyone deserves a voice.

Farah has witnessed firsthand the positive impact of these efforts, including panel discussions and events celebrating different cultures and perspectives, particularly those aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030.

Farah believes that a good leader at AtkinsRéalis embodies qualities such as humility, involvement, approachability, and professionalism. Our leadership's humility fosters an environment where everyone feels valued, while active involvement encourages collaboration. Being approachable creates open lines of communication, making it easy for team members to share ideas and concerns.

Furthermore, AtkinsRéalis invests in continuous learning and professional development, providing training, mentorship, and career growth opportunities. This commitment to fostering both personal and professional advancement strengthens the organization as a whole.

Looking ahead, Farah envisions AtkinsRéalis continuing to expand its influence in master planning, architecture, engineering, and consulting services. With a focus on sustainability and innovation, the company is well-positioned to integrate cutting-edge technologies and data-driven approaches into our projects.

We anticipate enhancing collaborative efforts across diverse teams and strengthening partnerships with clients and communities to drive impactful change. By aligning with global sustainability goals, AtkinsRéalis is poised to lead in shaping a resilient, sustainable future while maintaining our commitment to excellence and ethical practices.

At AtkinsRéalis, we believe that Different Makes a Difference. If you are passionate about driving change and growth, we invite you to apply to our organization and be part of a community that values diversity, innovation, and leadership. Together, we can shape the future of our industry and create a lasting impact.