Risk management careers: building confidence, skills and client relationships

If you’re exploring risk management careers, Eleanor’s story offers a practical look at how you can grow from an assistant role into a client-facing Risk Manager position. Based in Glasgow, she shares how AtkinsRéalis has supported her development, the skills she has built, and why risk management is about much more than spotting problems before they happen.

I started with AtkinsRéalis just five years ago as an Assistant Risk Manager, joining straight from Glasgow Caledonian University with a Master’s in Risk Management. I’d worked in insurance during university, but wanted to apply my degree in a role where I could support major projects and work closely with project teams.

I’m currently based in Glasgow and seconded to Scottish Water as Risk Manager, leading on their Major Projects Delivery Vehicle. I love this role; it’s close to home, I work on some really interesting projects, and I’m part of an amazing team. Previously, I’ve worked on projects across the UK, including the East Coast Digital Programme and local authority and council projects across England.

How have you developed your risk management career so far?

I’m really proud of my journey – having started as one of the first Assistant Risk Managers in the team, I’ve had the opportunity to work on many interesting and challenging projects, develop the confidence to work independently, and support others through shadowing. I’m especially proud of the relationships I’ve built and maintained with both colleagues and clients.

I’ve also been given amazing opportunities to attend events, including talking to university students about my experiences, the AtkinsRéalis risk team and risk management careers. I’ve attended the Project Controls Expo at Wembley Stadium, joined a beach clean-up with Scottish Water, and presented in UK team talks.

What support is available for people in risk management careers?

I’m very fortunate to be part of such a supportive and welcoming team. Everyone is approachable and always willing to help, which has created an environment where questions and knowledge-sharing are actively encouraged. We are based across different locations throughout the UK, but there is always someone on hand to offer guidance and support.

We also have weekly team catch-ups and a monthly Risk Forum, which gives us the chance to discuss different aspects of risk management, share knowledge, and showcase our work. Whether achievements happen in work or outside of work, they are shared and celebrated with the team.

I was encouraged to apply for the INSPIRE Programme, which provided valuable support in developing my confidence, overcoming imposter syndrome, enhancing communication and presentation skills, and successfully navigating a corporate environment.

What skills and experiences have you gained since joining? 

My people and communication skills have developed significantly since joining AtkinsRéalis as an Assistant Risk Manager with limited professional experience, particularly when it came to risk management and engaging directly with clients. At the time, I found these interactions quite daunting. Looking back, I’m surprised by how much more comfortable and confident I have become when speaking with new people, facilitating discussions, and talking about risk-related topics. This is probably the area where I’ve noticed the greatest personal growth, and it’s something I’m particularly proud of.

I’ve also had the opportunity to visit several Scottish Water treatment facilities across Glasgow. These visits have been incredibly interesting and have given me valuable insight into the operational side of the business. It’s been fascinating to see sites in my local area that I knew very little about. 

What should someone know before starting a career in project controls or risk management?

For anyone looking at risk management jobs or project controls roles, the mix of technical understanding, curiosity, communication and stakeholder engagement is really important. You need to be analytical, but you also need to be able to bring people with you.

But perhaps a common misconception is that risk management is about spotting every problem before it happens or trying to predict the future. 

“It’s about understanding uncertainty and helping organisations make informed decisions.” 

The role is all about helping clients and project teams identify and understand potential risks and opportunities, so they can make better decisions and keep projects moving in the right direction.

So being able to ask the right questions, challenge assumptions constructively, and engage with different stakeholders is a key part of the role. Much of risk management involves working with people to understand risks and identify practical mitigation actions.

I’d encourage anyone starting out not to be afraid to ask questions, even if they seem like common knowledge. Asking questions is one of the best ways to learn, build understanding, and develop your confidence. It’s also a profession where you’re constantly learning and adapting. Projects, industries and technologies are always evolving, bringing new challenges and opportunities. Staying curious, being open to learning new things, and embracing change will help you build a successful and rewarding career in project controls or risk management.

What is the risk management team culture like?

Perhaps a not-so-well-kept secret about the AtkinsRéalis risk team is just how like-minded, supportive and genuine everyone is. Despite being spread across the UK, we’ve built a really strong team culture, and there’s always someone willing to help or offer advice.

Our weekly team meetings are always relaxed and enjoyable, making them a great way to round off the week. We’ve also developed a bit of a tradition where the person leading the meeting has to finish with a couple of dad jokes. Most are fairly questionable, but they always give us a laugh and provide a welcome break from the usual day-to-day job.

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