AtkinsRéalis |
Advice featuring AtkinsRéalis
Ollie - Degree Apprentice in Local Transport
What has been the best part of your apprenticeship?
Learning on the job has been a major benefit during my apprenticeship, allowing me to apply knowledge to my degree and daily work. I've quickly developed the skills and behaviours of a civil engineer pursuing this career path and have been well supported throughout by Atkins.
What is the best thing about working #InsideAtkins?
Atkins has given me a wealth of opportunities to work on diverse projects in different parts of the UK and other countries. During my first 3 years at Atkins, I started working in the rail sector, where I worked on Bridge inspections all over the southwest, the Great Western electrification project working in civils, and I also worked in Dubai for two months during this time to support the Etihad rail and Dubai Metro projects. I now work for a County Council Framework, which has really developed my skills and understanding of local authority frameworks as a Project manager and Design lead on projects.
What are your Top Tips for those considering an apprenticeship?
Take every opportunity you're given. This advice was given to me when I first started, and I've stood by it, which has opened many opportunities for my development.
Another tip would be to look for new work or projects that will broaden your knowledge and understanding of Civil Engineering. A key attribute to being a civil engineer is understanding the bigger picture and the impact your work can have.
Finally, no question is a silly question – ask about everything!
How have you been supported to thrive?
Atkins has a great Young Professionals Community in each office and across the UK. It's great at supporting apprentices and graduates throughout their development. I've found networking with the Young Professionals Community key to establishing new working relationships and accessing the knowledge that has helped me progress towards the end of my apprenticeship. Peers and colleagues have also been an essential support network to my development as I have built my experience through collaborating with them.
What are some of the opportunities you've had as an Atkins apprentice?
Since my time at Atkins, I've worked in several different teams, including Bridges, civils and Geotechnics, Improvements, structures, town planning and Major projects. These are some of the projects I've worked on: Dubai Metro & Etihad Rail (Dubai), Great Western Electrification Project (London to Cardiff), White Hart Junction slip road (Swindon), Lydney Harbour footpath, Blakeney West Landslip remediation works, Principal Bridge inspections, Cheltenham town Parking review, and multiple improvements projects (Gloucestershire).
Lucy - Degree Apprentice in BSc Digital and Technology Solutions (IT Consultant pathway)
What made you decide to pursue an apprenticeship?
When I left school, I had plans to go to university but was uncertain about what I wanted to study. I knew I didn't want to leave education. However, I was also curious about the world of work and getting my 'foot in the door', so I started looking into apprenticeships. Unfortunately, there are still many misconceptions about apprenticeships, like they’re for people with no other options. In truth, there are so many exciting apprenticeships across the disciplines, from Aerospace Engineering to Zoology, so there really is something for everyone.
What came as the biggest surprise when you moved from education to the world of work?
My apprenticeship at Atkins was my third one. So, compared to other apprentices, my transition was pretty smooth as I had previously worked in an office environment. When I first went into work, I remember feeling daunted and thinking, I'm now in the 'real world.' I suddenly felt like I had all this responsibility on my shoulders. But, Atkins's environment has been welcoming and supportive. I get to work on a great variety of projects, so I'm excited to encounter new challenges every day.
What Social Value activities have you been involved with at Atkins?
I was a founding member of our Auditory Impairments Employee Community Group, which supports staff with hearing and auditory impairments. I'm also involved in developing the Young Professional of the Month (YPotM) Scheme, helping to refine the scheme to celebrate our young professionals in ADS&T.
What advice would you give to someone considering applying for an apprenticeship?
Firstly, it goes without saying that you should do your research into the companies you're applying for. Ensure you know the organization's values, mission, purpose, and current goals.
Secondly, look at existing apprenticeship vacancies to see what academic requirements they are looking for in a candidate. For example, many STEM-related apprenticeships require Maths and Physics at A Level (or equivalent).
Don't be afraid to apply somewhere if you don't meet all the requirements. The employers will look at your application as a whole and may see other unique qualities in you that they are after. Even if you get rejected from an application, reach out to the employer and ask for feedback, as there may be something in your application you can improve on for next time.
Conversely, one good thing about apprenticeships is that there is no upper age limit. I applied for this degree apprenticeship four years after leaving school and thought that might have worked against me. But, I've been welcomed onto the programme and treated no differently than my colleagues.
What are you most proud of achieving?
At Atkins, we’re supported to pursue our interests, and I’m a firm advocate for apprenticeships. Over the last year, I've won four apprenticeship-related awards for my advocacy, one of which was at a regional level.
Megan - Aerospace Degree Apprentice
What has been the best part of your apprenticeship?
The variety. In a typical working week, I work on client-facing projects, study towards my degree, and get involved in internal initiatives. AtkinsRéalis has supported my development outside of project work, including my degree studies and my involvement in various STEM events, such as the Flying Start Challenge and careers fairs in local schools.
What do you like about being an apprentice #InsideAtkinsRéalis?
The community of apprentices and Early Careers professionals we have. Networking with apprentices across diverse apprenticeship schemes and teams helps me understand what different professionals do. In my experience, all apprentices are willing to help and support other cohorts if they have questions or concerns.
What's your Top Tip for those considering an apprenticeship?
Get involved wherever you can. The apprenticeship scheme has given me a great insight into the opportunities available to Young Professionals. You just need to be willing to get involved and make the most of the opportunities that excite YOU!
What kind of work could I do as an AtkinsRéalis apprentice?
During my time with AtkinsRéalis, I've gained valuable project experience. I've worked on projects relating to Aerospace and Defence, allowing me to broaden my technical knowledge and experience in client-facing roles. This has included my most recent role, where I've taken on more responsibility by coordinating tasks for the client and working with them to deliver work packages that meet their requirements.
What's it like working in a huge company with over 36,000 employees?
Being part of a global workforce is an enlightening experience, especially with AtkinsRéalis' commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (ED&I). I've been involved in one ED&I project called Breaking Boundaries, an annual event dedicated to celebrating and highlighting the importance of diversity in the aerospace and defense sector. It's great that AtkinsRéalis encourages their employees to get involved with initiatives like this by attending these events or participating in the planning!
Rob - Degree Apprentice in the Highway Engineering Team
What has been the best part of your apprenticeship?
My Degree. I really enjoy the modules I take. It's great to focus on them during university weeks as a student and then get back to work and apply them, or at least understand their context in the real world. It's something that conventional students aren't able to experience right away.
What do you like about being an Apprentice #InsideAtkinsRéalis?
The flexibility. I have a supportive team that understands the balance apprentices need between work, study and exams – and leave and flexible working arrangements. There's also a level of trust here, and it works both ways – it's motivating to be treated like an adult and professional and given a certain amount of autonomy.
What's your Top Tip for those considering an Apprenticeship?
It's worth reading into the university/educational course you'll be undertaking and speaking to current apprentices to see if it's right for you. It's a commitment and hard work. You're simultaneously working and are a student. However, if you enjoy it and put in the effort, you get a lot out of it, and it is absolutely worth it!
How are you engineering a better future for our planet and its people?
Swapping cycling for driving is one way to improve the quality of life in a local area. And I've worked on several projects as part of Gloucestershire's cycle route scheme. As someone who cycles and truly believes in active travel, I am highly motivated to ensure that these projects are designed and delivered as well as possible so that communities will be encouraged to embrace active commuting!
What are some of the opportunities you've had as an AtkinsRéalis apprentice?
As I work in Highways, there is a vast range of sizes of projects and, therefore, a massive variety of roles to work on. It could range from project management and client relations on a small local authority junction upgrade to being one design team member for a national-scale project. This variety keeps it interesting and means that you rarely end up in only one role for an extended period.
Grace - Degree Apprentice in the Highways Team
What has been the best part of your apprenticeship?
Understanding how the engineering world works and being able to apply that to any university module. This includes engineering principles, document writing, and soft skills such as communication. Working for a large and diverse organization makes it easier to do your job – any of us can tap into global expertise and resources. It's also great that colleagues are willing to help you develop by answering any questions about work tasks and university assignments.
What is the best thing about working #InsideAtkinsRéalis?
At AtkinsRéalis, the projects you can get involved with are often industry-leading. This means you can access the best engineering minds to help develop your knowledge. Working on innovative projects also prepares you for the industry of the future. You also get to attend lots of industry events and support STEM careers initiatives, which is a great way to network with those inside and outside of AtkinsRéalis.
What's your best piece of advice for those considering an apprenticeship?
To be successful in your apprenticeship, it's important to be determined because sometimes, the balance of university and work can be stressful. It is also essential to take the opportunities you're given outside of your project work as they will progress skills you may not be using in your current daily role but could need in the future.
How are you engineering a better future for our planet and its people?
AtkinsRéalis is committed to solving global challenges, and every day offers an opportunity to make a long-lasting, tangible difference. As an apprentice, you'll really work at the forefront of this transformation. I've been working on Sizewell C, a new-build nuclear power plant in Suffolk that will produce approximately 20% of the energy for Britain's homes. It will reduce the fossil fuels used in the country, reducing greenhouse gas emissions!
How have you been supported to thrive?
I value the flexible working culture at AtkinsRéalis. You'll get time off work as an apprentice to complete assignments and revise. This helps reduce the time you need to spend outside work hours focusing on university. The ability to pick the hours you are working and which days you're in the office will also enable you to pursue other passions. I play sports in the evenings and manage my commitments better.
Kieron - Electro-Mechanical Engineering Degree Apprenctice
What have you enjoyed most about your AtkinsRéalis Apprenticeship?
Being able to learn and develop, not only from my University work but also from working on real projects that benefit real people and increase my practical skills.
What is the best thing about working for AtkinsRéalis?
There's a wide range of clients and industries I can be involved in. All of these have their own challenges and learning opportunities.
What is your top advice for future apprentices?
Don't be afraid to ask questions even if the answer seems obvious. I've learned that, as an apprentice, you often have a unique perspective on challenges, which makes you valuable to your team. This has proved to be the case on some of my projects.
How are you shaping your career goals on projects that interest you?
I'm eager for added technical responsibility and to work more in aerospace. So, on my current project, I've been put forward as one of the main design team members across various electrical and mechanical systems, including a one-of-a-kind.
What industry exposure have you enjoyed as an AtkinsRéalis apprentice?
At ADS&T, I've had opportunities on multiple cross-industry projects. For example, I have worked in aviation in the defence sector. Before joining AtkinsRéalis, I would have never considered being able to work in these sectors, especially within such a short space of time. This has allowed me to enjoy the unique challenges that arise across different industries.
Why choose AtkinsRéalis?
Unlike other companies, Atkins is a people-focused company where you are the product. As an apprentice, you can focus heavily on your personal development. Also, when I started, I didn't have a definite idea of where or what I wanted to do going forward. The variety of opportunities available inside AtkinsRéalis has helped me take a much broader view of my future.
Stefan - Human Factors Graduate Engineer
What has been your favorite experience?
My role as the Early Careers Forum Away Day Lead—contributing to and delivering one of the company’s largest events of the year, centering around Early Careers Development. The project management skills obtained from this have been invaluable, not to mention the networking opportunities with the Senior Leadership Team and beyond. It’s a great way to try something new and get your name out there.
What is the best thing about working for AtkinsRéalis?
The undisputed and genuine care they have for their employees. The work-life balance is great, and the line management is always willing to assist and help in any way they can to find solutions tailored to your needs. Also, they heavily invest in graduate development, and the sheer budget and training opportunities dedicated solely to our growth and interests is one to never take for granted.
What is your top tip for new graduates?
Step out of your comfort zone, and don’t be afraid to spread your wings, learn, and develop—even if you may not be an expert in whatever you pursue.
How has your graduate role at AtkinsRéalis helped you grow?
AtkinsRéalis heavily invests in our growth in every aspect. And I recommend all new starters take advantage of the many training opportunities. I’ve completed training courses in Core Consultancy Skills, RAMS, and received a qualification (PFQ) for Project Management on joining the Association of Project Management (APM). I plan to do a Bid Writing course at the end of the year and dedicate some time to complete the more advanced APM Certification—all invaluable professional development opportunities.
How does your work at AtkinsRéalis align with your degree or career interests?
I completed an MSc. in Human Factors and Ergonomics, so being accepted into a company that is one of the top employers for my discipline was quite a feat. Given that the Human Factors Team in ADS&T offers a huge diversity of work, my overarching goal is to expand my breadth of practical knowledge across the discipline, whether Cyber-Culture Human Factors, User Experience (UX), Safety Assurance, or Anthropometrics. Ultimately providing the building blocks for chartership. My current project is heavily aligned with Risk and Safety Assurance with anthropometric input, so it will be exciting to see what the future holds to expand on this.
Aditi - Graduate Signalling Engineer
What was your favorite experience?
As a Signalling Grad, my favorite experience was my Telecoms placement. It's partly because I'm interested in this area and partly because my degree is in that field. It was exciting to relate everything I worked on with the theory I learned at university.
What are the best things about working at Atkins?
My values align with Atkins' values – Safety, Integrity, Collaboration, and Innovation – and it's why I love to work here. Never have I felt that I cannot speak up if I have some ideas or if I think something is wrong. I've always seen people enthusiastic about teaching me or even helping with basic things. It's the people-culture I value most here.
What's your best piece of advice for new graduates?
Be open to every opportunity. And there are so many – just pick the right one for yourself. And don't be afraid to fail or make mistakes because people are so helpful and supportive that you will always have that safety net with you, so make mistakes and learn.
Flexible Working Culture
The flexible working culture inside Atkins helps me manage anything that life throws at me, whether day-to-day priority or any emergency situation. I have the flexibility to start early and finish early. On days when I have other commitments, I can manage my time accordingly without compromising on my personal or professional life. It also allows me to take time out for my hobbies and activities that wouldn't have been possible otherwise. For example, I try to work from home on Wednesdays and Fridays to get time in the evening for my dance classes.
How have you grown since being at Atkins?
It's almost been one year with Atkins, and the variety of opportunities I've had to experience different job roles has helped me understand the railway signalling business. There is still plenty more to learn in the coming years, but the kind of support graduates are given helps immensely with overall growth.
Our graduate cohort became a part of the Engineering Directorate Roadshow and presented the idea of Future Signalling Projects, which not only helped us know about the digital technologies being used but also helped us boost our confidence to present in front of so many people. I believe these activities help us build our personality and network with many people working in the business.
As a part of the graduate scheme, we rotate around the team to learn about every aspect of signalling. And I still look forward to different placements in the coming months. As a fresher, I think the graduate scheme at Atkins is an excellent opportunity to learn and grow.
Lowri - Junior Project Manager
What has been your favourite experience?
Project managing the Big Bang Fair. It was incredible to be at the heart of it all. And now, I'm steering a defence market client project. It's exciting and challenging in a whole different way. I enjoy collaborating in the defence sector – it keeps you on your toes.
What is the best thing about working for Atkins?
Flexibility is a game-changer, allowing work to integrate seamlessly into life. Beyond that, our commitment to inclusivity and diversity means everyone's voice is welcome at the table. It's a culture where difference is celebrated.
What is your top tip for new graduates?
Get involved in as many initiatives as you can. Grow your network and make connections in a variety of areas.
How has your graduate role at Atkins helped you grow?
My graduate role has allowed me to step outside my comfort zone in different ways, such as public speaking and leading a team. I look forward to establishing these skills as I move forward in my career by taking on more responsibilities in different roles on the team.
How has the environment at Atkins affected your graduate experience?
Atkins' commitment to creating an inclusive environment has allowed me to work within diverse, multi-faceted teams. This has allowed me to improve my leadership skills when leading a team. I've learnt to adapt to a range of characters and personalities. I feel empowered to share how I am different and encouraged to celebrate differences amongst my colleagues – Atkins champions this.
Huw - Junior Business Architect
What has been your favourite experience on the programme?
My favourite opportunity has been my current role as a Business Architect working in the Cyber Sector. The role and the subject area were completely new to me, so it's been a great experience to fully immerse myself in this space. Working as a Business Architect has been particularly interesting. It has allowed me to get a 'full vision' of a project, from the highest-level strategies to individual processes.
What is the best thing about working for Atkins?
The combination of the expertise of colleagues paired with the willingness to help and guide. I've had countless experiences of subject matter experts being happy to spend time with me. They are more than happy to impart their knowledge every time – even if we have never been formally introduced.
What is your top tip for new graduates?
Get talking to the people around you, including colleagues you may not necessarily cross paths with. Extending your internal network will open a wide range of opportunities – particularly in finding roles and internal initiatives that suit you.
How is your professional development going?
As a JCDP grad, I've worked across a broad scope of clients and roles. I get a real sense that everything I do for clients contributes to a brighter future for the planet. Going forward, I'd like to spend some time on the mathematical modelling team and use the technical skills I've gained through studies in real-world scenarios.
Why choose Atkins?
I was initially attracted to Atkins for its reputation of fostering innovation and providing opportunities to work on cutting-edge projects. On top of this, the supportive environment that encourages continuous learning and personal growth is more than just face value. You'll be given genuine backing to take your career where you want to be.
Rose - Assistant Engineer
She found the people so friendly, and the range of projects they were working on, blew her mind. At the time, Atkins were working on the Olympics and multiple projects in the Middle East.
She was able to sit in on design meetings for these projects and watch how projects begin with conceptual ideas, which eventually form into full detailed design, right the way through to construction. Rose realised that it was something she wanted to be part of. Work experience had given her the ability to see the types of work she could do and how exciting that would be.
Rose has become an advocate for work experience. As a STEM ambassador, she regularly goes into schools to talk to young people about engineering. When she starts to explain what she actually does, many young people, who might not have known what Civil Engineering involves, suddenly become very interested.
Taking it to placement level
Her experience with Atkins led Rose to organise an industrial placement year with them after her second year of university. She got to work on Hinkley Point C, which she says was a fantastic experience. It gave her a real appreciation of the complexities involved in running such a large-scale project and how good Atkins are at managing the quality and delivery of their work. It was also the first time she was working full-time, nine to five and getting paid. The whole experience taught Rose a lot about about the world of work, helping to prepare her for coming back as a graduate. She says, "I knew the people, and they knew me. It just made my transition into graduate life at Atkins fluid and straightforward. It makes a difference if you've been in a company before."
Becoming a graduate with Atkins
After university, Rose went travelling across South East Asia for three months. When she got back in 2017, she joined Atkins as a graduate in the Civil Engineering team. From day one, Rose had a line manager who was very supportive and proactive in getting her the experience she needed. In an organisation as large as Atkins, there are a lot of opportunities, different types of roles and responsibilities. So it's important to tailor your function to what you're interested in. Rose's line manager helped her do that.
"When you're starting out as a young professional, you don't necessarily know where your interests are going to lie. You might have specialised in one thing at university, but you don't really know where your career might lead and there's so much to learn. Atkins definitely have that focus on tailoring your experience to get the best out of you, to help you develop and grow in the way you want. There's so much variety within the company that if you want to try something new, there are so many exceptional people you can reach out to develop in that area," says Rose.
Senior engineers and managers across different departments and disciplines have always been really encouraging and helped Rose to learn. If she ever has any problems, she knows she can go to anyone and they would either teach her or mentor her. There's definitely a culture at Atkins where you can ask anyone, any question. Rose has never been scared to just pick up the phone and say, "I need some help with this." Even if someone doesn't know the answer, they'll put you in contact with someone who can help.
Atkins also has a huge graduate community and a graduate forum that encourages people to get together socially and build their networks. You could join a yoga class at lunchtime or one of the sports clubs. After-work drinks and networking events are encouraged too. They give you the chance to meet people from different parts of the business, which is especially useful when you're just starting out as a graduate after university. Atkins is a diverse business. At one of these events, you might find yourself sitting next to someone, who you don't know much about. Having the opportunity to mix and talk with them is really important, and you learn a lot about people at Atkins' social events.
Current graduate role
In her current role, Rose spent two years on a project as a civil engineer doing design work. It mostly involved project management, organising the design team and deliverables on large multidisciplinary projects. For the first year, Rose shadowed a project manager and got to learn a lot about the commercial side of the work, like project budgeting and resourcing. The rest of her time was spent managing the civil design team.
Aquatar Waterpark
Rose is very proud to have worked on the Aquatar Waterpark project. She considers herself fortunate to see it go from concept design through to schematics and then detailed design. The construction is just starting on site now in the Middle East, and it's set to be an iconic landmark.
From an engineering point of view, Rose found it challenging. It's an entire waterpark built on a man-made island, with an 80m tall steel tower built out in the sea. That's also what has made it so exciting for her to be involved in. It's the kind of project Rose never imagined she would ever work on. The Aquatar Waterpark project introduced Rose to Atkins' team at the Global Design Centre (GDC) in India. The GDC focusses on digital and design transformation, and the park's civil design saw collaboration between the India and UK teams. Rose was responsible for managing the coordination and delivery of the work between the two offices, ensuring we delivered over 30 civil assets on time, to budget and of top quality.
As part of the project, Rose was asked to go to India for two weeks with a team of 25 people to help the project meet its deadline. She jumped at the opportunity. Rose received so much support leading up to her departure, and while in India. Her office made sure that everything was ready for her, that she'd be safe during the entire trip and checked in on her regularly.
The team in India welcomed her enthusiastically with their positive team ethos. Rose was moved by the pride they took in their work. The team even took her into New Delhi for a day, introducing her to local delicacies, taking her shopping for ethnic clothing and sightseeing. Most recently, Rose was offered a secondment with Atkins' joint-venture partner, McAlpine. Her role is working as a site engineer for the contractor for nine months. As she's working towards her Chartership, she needed to get some experience on a construction site, so this was a great opportunity. Rose did about three months before the COVID-19 pandemic hit, so she's back at Atkins and working from home. She's hoping to be back on site soon, so she can finish off her secondment.
Winning graduate of the year
Last year, a colleague suggested Rose apply for Graduate of the Year as part of Atkins' Young Professionals Awards. She wasn't sure if she should go for it, but everyone around her encouraged her to enter. Rose also had to find a sponsor for the application. The project manager on her project supported her by taking the time to create a video to submit as part of Rose's application.
It was during Rose's time in India that she heard she'd been shortlisted for the Infrastructure division. As she was abroad, she had to have a video interview with five senior members of staff. Back in the UK, everyone at the organisation was looking forward to the big Atkins Recognition Awards Ceremony in Birmingham – a night dedicated to recognising people and teams across the business.
The night was a hugely exciting black-tie event, with photographers, cameras, champagne, and it was all themed around movies. Winners weren't announced until the evening's ceremony, so there was a lot of suspense. When Rose was called up for her category, she hadn't expected it at all.
“Everyone is really encouraging here. You might think you're not good enough for a role or to apply for something, but you'll always find people who can give you advice and push you to do things, and it really boosts your confidence.” She says.
Life outside of Atkins
Rose has always been a sociable person who enjoys spending time with lots of different types of people. So she's often organising team-building and socials. She believes these events are great chances for people to get to know each other and network in a non-work environment. Her favourite was when the whole team went to Flight Club in London and enjoyed social darts. She also has helped organise socials for her project and has put together the staff Christmas party for the last few years, which people get a lot out of.
Most engineers are very creative people, and Rose likes channelling and developing her creative design skills outside of work. She loves crafting and making things. It could be baking a "rocket landing on the moon" cake to renovating her house or building a vegetable planter for her garden. Regardless of what the project is, Rose enjoys coming up with concept design and ideas, researching, thinking about materials, setting goals and coming up with a plan. It's that spark for wanting to come up with new ideas and find innovative solutions that she then takes back to work. Rose can even use some examples of her projects outside of work, showing management or leadership skills, as evidence towards her Chartership.
Taking On Challenges Where My Interests And Ambitions Lie.
What made you decide on a career in management consultancy?
As a young child I wanted to be a vet, and after that, anything related to working with wildlife conservation, humanitarian charities and people in general. When I ‘grew up’ I knew I didn’t want to be doing the same thing day in, day out. I felt management consultancy would allow me to work with various groups of people on an array of different and interesting projects.
Why Atkins?
The ethos of the company was one of the main reasons I wanted to work here. The core values of integrity, collaboration and innovation guide whatever we do – so I really have confidence in the way things are done at Atkins. I also applied because of Atkins’ reputation and size – I’m able to work on a wide variety of big and small projects for public and private sector clients. And so far I’ve been exposed to a fair few of them!
Who inspires you in Atkins?
My current project manager, who always remains positive and manages to deliver work to a high standard, even when things can be quite hard going. Also a few of the client directors who I’ve worked closely with in the past, who have progressed up the ranks with Atkins and are now doing fantastic work developing our relationships with clients.
What is it like to work at Atkins?
I find it to be an incredibly collaborative and supportive company. Despite being with Atkins for a relatively short amount of time, everyone I have worked with is more than happy to answer questions and share their knowledge. There is definitely a ‘one team’ culture. The best thing about the company is the people. Being on the JCDP has been fantastic in both support and social aspects.
What’s your proudest career moment to date?
Being awarded the Junior Consultant of the Month Award for my contribution to the Security Intelligence and Government Win Work Team and facilitating a workshop focusing on increasing market and practice collaboration.
Dan’s line manager told us how much she values Dan’s contribution:
On his secondment, Dan is part of the Project Management Office (PMO) team. This means he works hand in hand with other Atkins colleagues and the client to solve complicated problems on our client’s projects and programmes.
He hasn’t been with us for long, but we offered him responsibility quickly, giving him any support that he’s needed. I rely on him to provide project management (PM) expertise and work with the PMO team on site, developing solutions that balance industry best-practice and the maturity of the project/programme with the client’s needs.
Day to day, he maintains and advocates effective governance across the project/programme and does this by taking ownership of PMO activities, such as tracking and monitoring risks & issues, producing reports and facilitating budget meetings. Ultimately Dan ensures that our client’s projects/programmes are delivered on time, on budget and within the agreed scope.
As a client facing consultant he’s an ambassador for Atkins and always conducts himself in a professional manner, with a clear focus on listening to, understanding and meeting the client’s needs. He’s a valued member of the team and we’re extremely proud of the work he is doing!