International women in engineering day: from first step to leadership

Sometimes the biggest career shifts come from the smallest moments. For me, it started with a desk move that opened the door to something entirely new.

I did not plan a career in supply chain from the start. In fact, it began with a desk move. That small change opened up a new direction for me, and it grew into a career that has now spanned nearly 18 years at AtkinsRéalis. Looking back, my journey has always been driven by a desire to keep learning, grow through challenges, and contribute in a practical way.

A career shaped by curiosity 

I joined AtkinsRéalis in 2008 as a Project Document Controller, supporting Midlands and North rail engineering projects. Alongside this, I provided administrative support to HSQE and Project Commercial teams, which gave me a broader understanding of how the business works and how different teams come together to deliver for clients.

At the time, I knew I wanted to develop further, even if I was not yet sure in what direction. That changed when I moved desks and found myself sitting within the Supply Chain team. Their work quickly caught my interest. After a few months of seeing what they did day to day, I asked about opportunities within the team.

In 2013, I joined Supply Chain in a junior role. From there, I have progressed by taking on more responsibility, building confidence, and supporting increasingly complex projects.

Leading supply chain across major projects

Today, I am part of the Complex Project Supply Chain Team and work as Supply Chain Manager for the Southern Region. I am home based in the West Midlands, with Birmingham as my local office.

My role includes managing the Southern Procurement Portfolio, supporting and mentoring the Procurement Team, and leading procurement activity across major projects. A key part of my work is collaborating with suppliers, stakeholders, and project teams to help projects run smoothly and ensure materials and services are delivered efficiently.

Supply chain plays a real part in project success. It helps bridge the gap between planning and delivery, and creates opportunities to improve how we work.

“Better ways of working create better outcomes” 

What motivates me is finding smarter and more sustainable ways of working, while delivering value and maintaining compliance with industry standards.

With over ten years in supply chain and more than twenty years in the rail industry, I have built strong relationships and developed a real passion for collaboration and continuous improvement.

For me, this work is not just about process. It is about solving problems, supporting delivery, and helping projects run better. Strong collaboration across suppliers, stakeholders, and project teams is what makes that possible.

Support that makes a difference 

What stands out most in my career is the support I have experienced.

During my time here, I have moved home several times, become a mother, and reached important personal milestones. I have also faced very difficult moments, including loss, illness, surgery, and challenges with my mental health.

Throughout it all, my colleagues, managers, and senior leaders have shown genuine care. They gave me time when I needed it, checked in when things felt tough, and created space for me to be open.

That support has meant more than they probably realise. It is a big part of why I have built such a long career here and why I believe people do their best work when they feel supported as whole people.

Growth that keeps moving forward

My journey has pushed me outside of my comfort zone at times, and I have needed encouragement along the way. But every role and every project has helped me grow and contribute more.

If you are looking for a career where you can keep learning, take on meaningful challenges, and be supported as you grow, opportunities like this are possible. Stay curious, ask questions, and be open to paths that might start in unexpected places.

Explore job opportunities at AtkinsRéalis today.