Airports Sector Lead

Thomas & Adamson; Manchester; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading engineering consultancy seeks an Airports Sector Director to manage the growth of the airports sector in the UK and Ireland. This key leadership role involves strategic development, business development, and operational delivery within the aviation sector. The ideal candidate will have extensive experience in airport engineering and strong industry connections. This is a unique opportunity to significantly impact a growing division within a global firm, fostering innovation and excellent service delivery.

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience in the Airports sector.
• Strong commercial insight and established network.
• Experience in strategic planning and project management.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development and expansion of the airports sector.
• Refine the airport sector strategy for UK & Ireland.
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities.

Skills

Airport & Airfield Engineering

Commercial acumen

Stakeholder engagement

Leadership skills

Bid writing

Sales and marketing

Communication skills

Education

Degree in a relevant discipline

Job description

About Us

Egis is a leading global architectural, consulting, construction engineering, operations and mobility services firm. We create and operate intelligent infrastructure and buildings that both respond to the climate emergency and contribute to balanced, sustainable and resilient development. Our 20,500 employees operate across over 100 countries, deploying their expertise to develop and deliver cutting‑edge innovations and solutions for clients. Through the wide range of our activities, we are central to the collective organisation of society and the living environment of citizens all over the world.

About the Role

The Airports Sector Director will lead the development and drive the expansion of the airports sector across the UK, Ireland and major projects in Europe for both Consultancy & Engineering services. You can be based anywhere across the UK or Ireland.

This is a leadership position focused on refining our go-to-market strategy, securing and delivering projects and, working collaboratively with the senior leadership team in the UK/IRL and Egis’ Global Aviation market sector team to develop and own a long‑term vision for a sustainable growth of Egis’ aviation business in these countries.

The ideal candidate will possess deep sector knowledge with proven experience in the fields of airport engineering (either in the Engineering Industry or working Client’ side) strong commercial insight, and an established network of senior industry relationships especially in the UK.

Previous experience of Design and/or Design & Build projects for airfield would be highly advantageous.

We are seeking a candidate with a proven track record in airports especially in UK and securing new business in the airports sector. This is an opportunity to make a significant impact in a global, multi-disciplinary environment with strong expectation of growth at Egis group level.

Key responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Refine and lead the airport sector strategy for UK & Ireland. As a priority, accelerate existing activity on the airports in UK&I to strengthen pipeline & relationships.
• Evolve the go-to-market proposition in collaboration with business and service line leaders.
• Strengthen Egis’ market position through thought leadership, industry engagement, and strategic partnerships.
• Foster synergies across Egis by working closely with peers within the region and the Service Line.

Business Development & Client Engagement

• Identify and pursue new business opportunities with existing and prospective clients across the UK, Ireland and in selected European countries.
• Lead bids and proposals, ensure submissions are technically and commercially robust.
• Build trusted advisor relationships with key stakeholders.
• Represent the business at industry events, panels, and conferences to enhance visibility and influence.
• Coordinate with the Business Development and Tender Unit teams to nurture leads into active opportunities aligned with strategic priorities.
• Engage regularly with strategic clients and key accounts to shape future business opportunities.
• Develop and steward high‑value industry partnerships to strengthen collaboration and performance across Egis’s supply chain.

• Lead and support the operational delivery of client projects.
• Strengthen the aviation team in UK to exceed client delivery expectations.
• Attract and retain top‑tier talent while providing ongoing mentoring and development.
• Oversee project delivery to ensure high standards in quality, financial outcomes (billable activity, gross margin, EBITDA…) client satisfaction, and compliance.
• Deliver and exceed operational and budgetary objectives in line with service line strategic targets.
• Encourage collaboration across regional and global networks to leverage wider expertise and enhance service delivery.
• Drive a high‑performance culture through effective people management, performance appraisal, and clear communication.
• Develop and implement strategies for the recruitment and retention of key personnel.
• Work with corporate services (e.g. HR, Tender Unit) and the Service Line Director to manage operational planning, staff utilisation, talent acquisition, and mobility.

Service Innovation & Excellence,

• Keep abreast of market trends.
• Champion innovation in service offerings, tools, and digital platforms.
• Ensure rigorous governance, risk management, and quality assurance in all engagements.
• Consistently demonstrate leadership in innovation to support Egis’ commitment to sustainable performance.

What do we need from you

Skills and experience required

• Demonstrated experience in the Airports sector with an emphasis on Airport & Airfield Engineering.
• Deep knowledge of Airports sector is mandatory, with proven experience and network within the Industry, Contractors, Public Bodies and Private Operators and Investors.
• A good understanding of Airport Consultancy, including strategic planning, stakeholder engagement and communications, business case development, infrastructure strategy and client‑side Project/Programme Management.
• Proven ability to build and scale an engineering business from inception to maturity.
• Strong commercial acumen and understanding of engineering & consultancy delivery models and business planning.
• Inclusive and inspirational leadership style, fostering a collaborative and values‑driven culture.
• Proficiency in tender analysis and bid writing.
• Experience in sales and marketing, with excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to confidently engage with senior officials in government and client organisations, including presenting at a professional level.

Qualifications

• Degree‑qualified in a relevant discipline – or equivalent demonstrable experience.
• Demonstrable relevant experience in airports engineering and consulting or client‑side roles.

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion:

At Egis, we are an Equal Opportunities employer and we recognise the value of a diverse organisation. Egis appreciates all job applications. If you decide to apply for an opportunity at Egis, your application will be assessed based purely on your experience, the essential and desirable criteria, and your suitability for the role. We value each and everyone’s contribution as this builds our culture and means, if you work for Egis, you will be included, listened to and respected.