How I build confidence into complex projects

Aston is a Regional Director in the Estimating & Cost Advisory team at AtkinsRéalis, based in London. He leads a UK team supporting complex infrastructure projects across transportation, water, energy and wider infrastructure. His work helps clients make better investment decisions by improving cost confidence, commercial assurance and project delivery.  

 

What my role in Estimating and Cost Advisory involves 

“My work is centred on helping clients make better investment decisions.”  

That means giving them greater confidence around cost, commercial assurance and project delivery, while supporting value for money and better long‑term outcomes. The projects we support are often complex, high‑profile and essential to everyday life, from water and energy infrastructure to transport systems that connect communities. By helping clients understand, plan and control costs, we can reduce unnecessary expenditure, manage affordability challenges and support more resilient infrastructure for the future. 

What a typical day looks like 

Day to day, my role combines client delivery with leading and developing a growing practice team. I split my time between supporting major projects, developing new client solutions, strengthening our internal capability, improving tools and processes, and contributing to bids and business development. My current portfolio is diverse, including major water programmes, Transport for London projects and the Canada High Speed Rail project. Throughout my career, I’ve worked extensively with energy clients, providing cost management, assurance and independent review services to help major projects deliver successfully. 

How my career has grown at AtkinsRéalis 

Since joining AtkinsRéalis, I’ve expanded my network across sectors, geographies and disciplines, broadening my perspectives. And I’ve helped establish the culture, foundations and capabilities to support the growth of our Estimating & Cost Advisory team. Building a leading practice in this area has been a long‑term career aspiration of mine, so it is incredibly rewarding to see that vision taking shape.  

“One of the most fulfilling parts of my role is developing the people around me.” 

I mentor colleagues at different career stages and try to create an environment where people feel supported to take on new challenges, build confidence and shape their own path. Working across national and international projects has also helped me collaborate across time zones, adapt to different client environments and operate effectively within diverse, high‑performing teams. 

A standout experience so far has been the opportunity to work internationally, particularly through my involvement in Canada High Speed Rail. Travelling to Canada and collaborating with colleagues and clients on a programme of that scale gave me a different perspective on major project delivery.  

Why Complex Projects can broaden your career 

We work across major frameworks, high‑profile clients and sectors including water, transportation, energy and defence. That variety means there are opportunities to build sector knowledge, develop new skills and contribute to some of the most important infrastructure challenges facing society. The business is growing, creating more opportunities to take on more responsibility, develop leadership skills and help shape the future of the team. 

You’ll also be supported with professional development, including chartership and structured learning programmes, as well as being empowered by the emphasis on data, analytics and continuous improvement.  

What makes the culture different 

What stands out most to me is the genuine focus on people. I’ve consistently seen leaders make thoughtful decisions with employees’ wellbeing, development and long‑term success in mind. We have a collaborative and supportive environment where we’re trusted to take ownership, apply our expertise and deliver in the way we believe will create the best outcomes for clients and the business. 

That trust is important to me. Flexibility, mutual respect and accountability all help me do my best work. They allow people to balance the demands of project delivery, professional development and life outside work, while still achieving high‑quality results.  

For example, something that often surprises people is my passion for music. I write and produce my own music and have released three albums, with plenty of unreleased material still waiting to be finished. I also enjoy experimenting in the kitchen, creating new recipes, playing and watching football, reading and discovering a great film. Those interests give me a creative balance outside my day‑to‑day role and help me stay curious, which benefits both my personal and professional development. 

My advice for future team members 

If someone is thinking about joining our team, I’d encourage them to look closely at the range of opportunities available. AtkinsRéalis has a significant presence across major infrastructure sectors, supported by deep engineering, consultancy and strategic advisory capabilities. Whether your interests lie in transportation, water, energy, defence or wider infrastructure, there is scope to build experience across different sectors and disciplines while working alongside talented colleagues. 

 Interested in complex projects? Explore Cost, Commercial & Procurement careers with AtkinsRéalis.