#CivvyStreet: service to delivery

Hello, my name is Bobby. My career has taken an unconventional but deeply rewarding path. Before entering the world of project management, I played professional ice hockey across the United States and Europe. I later spent eight years in the Royal Navy as a submarine weapons and communications engineer  an experience that profoundly shaped my character, work ethic, and leadership style.

Towards the end of my Royal Navy Submarine career, I moved into a specialised project management role focused on submarine locations and communications. This responsibility demanded precision, calm under pressure, and an ability to coordinate across highly technical teams. It ignited a long term passion for project delivery that I knew I wanted to carry into civilian life.

Developing my civilian career

After leaving the Navy, I began my civilian journey in consultancy, progressing steadily from assistant project manager to project manager, and ultimately to senior project manager. Each role broadened my technical and leadership capabilities while building my confidence in delivering high value, complex projects.

Joining AtkinsRéalis and expanding my horizons

Joining AtkinsRéalis as a Senior Project Manager allowed me to accelerate my development within a supportive, high performance environment. While I initially returned to defence consultancy, my career has since grown in new and exciting directions.

I am now an Associate Director / Senior Project Manager within the Northwest Project and Programme Services team. My current focus is in the aviation sector, where I am helping deliver the latest upgrade to Birmingham Airport’s passenger‑facing airside commercial development concourse a transformative project that will significantly enhance the airport’s capacity, efficiency, and passenger experience. I am incredibly proud that AtkinsRéalis is leading such a high profile programme, and equally proud to contribute to its success.

Supporting ex forces talent through buildforce

Alongside my project delivery responsibilities, I also serve as the BuildForce Ex Forces Recruitment Lead for AtkinsRéalis. In this role, I interview, mentor, and support service leavers seeking new opportunities across the organisation. Helping veterans transition into meaningful civilian careers is something I care about deeply, and it remains one of the most personally fulfilling aspects of my work.

Thriving at AtkinsRéalis

Having worked for several organisations throughout my career, I know firsthand what makes AtkinsRéalis stand out. Our culture is inclusive, supportive, and genuinely invested in individual growth. My colleagues, line managers, and mentors all contribute to an environment where people can build exceptional careers while delivering excellence for clients.

I feel a strong sense of belonging here. AtkinsRéalis is a place where I can see my long term future whether that involves continuing in aviation, returning to defence, or exploring new areas such as renewable energy. The breadth of opportunity genuinely excites me.

Commitment to flexibility, wellbeing, and high performance

Flexible working at AtkinsRéalis has been pivotal in enabling me to deliver my best. I work on site four days a month, spend around six days per month in the Manchester office, and the remainder of the time working from home. This balanced approach supports both focus and wellbeing. My commitment to my work and my mental health is stronger than ever, and I’m proud to say I’ve maintained zero burnout.

At AtkinsRéalis, our hashtag #MakeItBrilliant resonates with me. Each day, I set clear targets—to support my health, deliver for my clients, contribute positively to the organisation, and make a meaningful impact through both my personal and professional actions.

Find a role with us today.