Project delivery careers: continuous growth and impact

Meet Edith, Senior Design Manager in AtkinsRéalis’ Project Delivery Practice (PDP) as she shares how her career has grown through complex programmes, digital innovation and opportunities across sectors including nuclear, water, defence and building design. 

If you’re keen to accelerate your career whilst helping shape stronger communities, supporting varied clients and creating meaningful long‑term value on complex and significant infrastructure projects, you’ll find much to excite you here. 

How did you first get interested in project delivery? 

My interest in project delivery really came from wanting to see concepts become real‑world solutions. I started in architecture, and really enjoyed the design side, but I found myself wanting to be involved in more than just creating the designs and drawings. I wanted to see the whole project journey from concept through to completion across the different lifecycle stages and that led me to studying Construction Project Management at Loughborough University for my master’s degree. 

Joining AtkinsRéalis really gave me the opportunity to pursue my passion. I’ve been fortunate enough to work across different projects in different sectors, all varying in size, scope and complexity. That’s been really eye‑opening and has exposed me to a wide range of challenges and opportunities. It’s also allowed me to develop a broad understanding of project delivery and reinforced my passion for leading collaboratively to deliver successful outcomes. 

How did your career grow whilst working on Sizewell C? 

That project gave me the opportunity to combine my passion for digital innovation and digital efficiency, while working across a very complex infrastructure programme. Working directly with the client as part of the Pre‑Construction team gave me valuable experience influencing strategy and driving digital construction planning and sequencing using 4D, supporting better decision‑making and programme outcomes. 

I was able to significantly develop my leadership, stakeholder management and digital delivery skills and as a team, our work in the digital space was recognised by winning Tech Team of the Year 2024, and more awards with Construction News and New Civil Engineer’s TechFest. On a more personal level, I was honoured to be nominated by colleagues and selected as a finalist for the Women in Construction and Engineering Awards in the Digital Innovation category. 

Working on Sizewell C gave me the opportunity for international collaboration, visiting our Global Technology Centre in India and working closely with colleagues there. This broadened my perspective and overall, Sizewell C reinforced my passion for using digital innovation to improve project delivery, understand client needs and deliver projects as part of a global team. 

What have been the most valuable tools and experiences as you’ve developed your career? 

Throughout my career journey, I’ve found that software and digital tools are really just enablers. Their value comes from people communicating well, collaborating effectively, and asking the right questions. Without that, the tools aren't effective. 

As a Project Manager, that same mindset applies to project delivery. How can we improve efficiency? How can we make processes easier and remove barriers so that our teams can focus on successful delivery? One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is that technology is an enabler, but it’s the people, collaboration and willingness to continuously improve that create the greatest impact. 

What has been the most enjoyable project you have worked on, and why? 

I find that a difficult question to answer because I’ve genuinely enjoyed working on many projects for different reasons. Sizewell C was incredibly rewarding because of its scale and complexity. It’s a project that will eventually provide low‑carbon electricity to millions of homes, and I had the opportunity to work directly with the client. 

I’m currently working on AMP8 water projects, which are completely new to me and something I’m finding really interesting. It’s given me exposure to civil and process engineering, as well as a much deeper understanding of how wastewater treatment and water infrastructure impact people’s daily lives.  

What I enjoy most are projects where I can work with different teams, learn new things and contribute to work that makes a real difference to society. 

How does AtkinsRéalis support self‑growth and development? 

One of the things that stands out for me is how you’re able to grow and develop, and the support you get along the way. I’ve had the opportunity to pursue a career in project management and completed the APM PMQ and Project Management Fundamentals Qualification, became NEC4 accredited, and I’m currently working towards my Chartered Project Professional. I’ve also been fortunate to be nominated for leadership programmes, which have helped grow my skills in leadership and working with different people. 

What I really like is that you’re not limited to one path. I’ve worked in nuclear, water, building design and defence, with supportive line managers and colleagues who are always willing to share their knowledge and experiences. I’ve never felt like I couldn’t reach out and ask for advice or guidance. AtkinsRéalis definitely gives you that support and opportunity to try things, invest in your professional development, and learn from others.  

For me, every day is a CPD day. 

What are you most excited about for the future? 

For me, PDP is about growth and the opportunity to learn from different experiences. It brings together people with experience across different sectors and disciplines and gives you the chance to continuously deliver projects that have a direct impact on our planet. 

Personally, I am excited to grow as a Project Manager, working towards becoming Chartered, and continuing to explore how digital innovation can improve project delivery. I know I’ll keep learning, keep growing, and work with talented people who are passionate about delivering better outcomes for our clients, our communities and the world in general. 

Explore jobs with Project Delivery Practice here.