Associate Director, Social Value

Overview

Social value is a critical part of how organisations create sustainable growth, build resilience and deliver lasting impact. At AtkinsRéalis, we help clients transform ambition into action, embedding social value into the heart of major projects, programmes and investment decisions. Our growing Social Value Consultancy team partners with leading public and private sector organisations to develop innovative strategies that deliver measurable benefits for communities, the economy and the environment.

As an Associate Director within our UK&I Transportation business unit, you will lead the development of Social Value Consultancy Services, shaping strategy, driving business growth and delivering positive impact on a scale that truly matters.

• Build trusted client relationships and position AtkinsRéalis as a strategic partner on social value and wider business priorities.
• Shape social value strategy by translating client needs, market trends and policy developments into impactful and commercially viable solutions.
• Lead complex programmes and build social value delivery teams, ensuring high‑quality delivery, governance and measurable outcomes.
• Drive business growth through account management, opportunity development, strategic partnerships and successful win‑work activity.
• Drive innovation, shape strategic decisions through trusted advice, growing client relationships and delivering positive impact.
• Develop and inspire high‑performing teams, creating an inclusive culture that supports collaboration, accountability and professional growth.
• Drive technical excellence by advancing methodologies, tools, reporting, governance and assurance practices.
• Deliver measurable impact, ensuring social value commitments are evidence‑led, achievable and translated into meaningful outcomes for clients and communities.
• Represent AtkinsRéalis externally, building market profile through thought leadership, industry engagement and strategic networks.

We are looking for someone who is:

• A proven leader with experience of developing high‑performing teams, building strong relationships and delivering successful social value programmes across a range of markets.
• A strong communicator, with the ability to influence and engage a wide variety of audiences including internal leaders, clients and multi‑disciplinary project teams.
• Skilled in developing and maintaining client relationships and promoting AtkinsRéalis services.
• Confident in managing senior stakeholders, influencing at the highest levels, and working collaboratively across departments to maximise opportunities.
• Comfortable operating in complex and dynamic environments, balancing strategic thinking, commercial priorities and delivery excellence.
• Understanding of the key drivers and developments in social value delivery in the UK and experience applying this knowledge.
• Understanding of, and practical experience in using, social value metrics in the measurement, monitoring and reporting of social outcomes and impact.

Midlands and North of England – other areas may also be considered.

This role may require security clearance. Offers of employment will depend on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. The vetting process is delivered by United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require proof of residency in the UK of five years or longer.

We are committed to creating a culture where everyone feels that they belong – a place where we can all be ourselves, thrive and develop to be the best we can be. We offer a range of family‑friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee resource groups to support all employees. As an Equal Opportunities Employer, we value applications from all backgrounds, cultures and abilities.

As a Disability Confident Leader, we are committed to offering an interview to all applicants who have a disability and meet the essential criteria. If you would like to be considered under this commitment, please let us know at the application stage.