Associate Director - Airport Civil Engineer

Overview

Shape the Future of our cities and environments. We are seeking an experienced Associate Director for Airport Civil Engineering to lead senior technical teams, set strategic direction, nurture client relationships, and shape the growth of our aviation consultancy.

At Associate Director level, you will have accountability for technical excellence, client leadership, and commercial performance, alongside line management and mentorship responsibilities.

• Providing strategic leadership on complex UK and international airport civil engineering projects, acting as Project Director or Technical Lead as appropriate.
• Acting as a trusted advisor to airport operators, regulators, and stakeholders, building long‑term client relationships and repeat business.
• Leading the development and delivery of airfield infrastructure projects, including pavement designs, materials specifications, maintenance plans, and condition assessments, translating complex technical data into practical, deliverable engineering solutions.
• Overseeing demand forecasting, capacity assessment, and data‑driven decision‑making, ensuring robust, defendable outputs.
• Taking overall responsibility for the quality, consistency, and timely delivery of technical reports, presentations, and client‑facing outputs.
• Chairing and leading senior design reviews, client workshops, and stakeholder meetings.
• Playing a central role in work‑winning and business development, including shaping opportunity pipelines, leading bids and tenders, and supporting market strategy.
• Contributing to the growth and direction of the airfield civil engineering discipline, including development of tools, guidance, training material, and innovation initiatives.
• Providing line management, mentorship, and career development support to senior and junior team members, building a strong succession pipeline.
• Actively engaging with and contributing to the global aviation and infrastructure network, sharing knowledge and best practice across regions.

• A degree in Civil Engineering (or equivalent).
• Chartered status with a relevant professional institution such as ICE.
• Extensive professional experience in Airport or Highways pavement design, with strong understanding of material specifications and maintenance with an appreciation of principles and application of UK and international pavement design methods.
• Demonstrated experience leading large, complex, and multi-disciplinary design teams on air‑field infrastructure design projects from concept through to detailed design, delivering high‑quality outputs on time and within budget.
• Proven ability to operate effectively at senior client and stakeholder level, influencing decision‑making and managing risk.
• Solid understanding of commercial, contractual, and financial aspects of consultancy project delivery.
• A clear track record of successful business development, including leading bids, winning work, and growing client accounts.
• Comfortable working in a fast‑paced consultancy environment with a strong sense of accountability and ownership.
• Willingness to travel periodically for short‑term project assignments.

Enjoy competitive salaries, employee rewards, and a range of benefits that support health, wellbeing, financial and lifestyle choices. You will have access to training and professional development opportunities, and enjoy a hybrid working culture with flexible holiday allowances.

This role may require security clearance and offers of employment will be dependent on obtaining the relevant level of clearance. If mandatory, the vetting process will involve the United Kingdom Security Vetting (UKSV) and may require proof of UK residency for 5 years or longer. Applicants should not reference any current or previously held security clearance in their application or CV.

We are committed to creating a culture where everyone feels that they belong. We offer a range of family‑friendly, inclusive employment policies, flexible working arrangements and employee resource groups to support all employees.