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By combining structured leadership development, AI-enabled career growth, and a culture of belonging, AtkinsRéalis is equipping employees to thrive in an evolving world of work.
This article is brought to you by AtkinsRéalis.
Engineering organisations today are navigating rapid digital transformation, rising sustainability expectations, and intensifying competition for talent. At the same time, as new generations enter the workforce, their expectations are shifting towards meaningful work, structured career pathways, and holistic wellbeing.
Rethinking how to attract, develop, and retain talent, while preparing the next generation of leaders to thrive in an evolving industry, has therefore never been more critical.
To address these challenges, AtkinsRéalis has moved beyond traditional onboarding models to adopt a more holistic and connected approach to talent development. By focusing on capability building, employee engagement, and long-term growth, the organisation is strengthening its leadership pipeline while enabling employees to navigate increasingly dynamic career journeys.
This forward-looking strategy has earned AtkinsRéalis recognition at the recent Employee Experience Awards 2026, with a gold award in Best Graduate Training Programme, and a bronze in Best Leadership Development Strategy.
Building leadership capability across every career stage
At the core of AtkinsRéalis’ approach is the organisation’s global Employee Value Proposition (EVP), built around five pillars: ‘Purposeful Impact’, ‘Global Community’, ‘Transformative Capabilities’, ‘Careers Without Boundaries’, and ‘Thriving Together’. Developed through extensive research and employee insights, the EVP reflects what employees value most, while reinforcing a culture where everyone can thrive.
One key priority for AtkinsRéalis is nurturing technically strong and leadership-ready engineering talent across all stages of the employee lifecycle.
For youth stepping into the workforce, the ‘Early Careers Programme’ offers a structured pathway that combines technical training with leadership exposure spanning engineering, sustainability, and digital transformation disciplines. New joiners are also supported through a buddy system during their first six months to ensure smooth onboarding and integration. Combined with chartership and membership guidance, new graduates are equipped with the knowledge, networks, and practical experience needed to accelerate their professional development.
For managers, the ‘Manager Essentials Programme’ focuses on strengthening core people-leadership capabilities. Covering areas such as emotional intelligence, team building, and leading hybrid teams, its modular and flexible design allows managers to apply learning directly to real-world scenarios, enhancing both team engagement and performance.
Turning insight into action through digital innovation
To further enable personalised career growth, AtkinsRéalis has introduced AI-enabled platforms that bring greater transparency and agility to talent development.
For example, the digital tool ‘Skills Trawler’ helps visualise employee capabilities across the organisation, while enabling employees to explore projects and opportunities aligned with their skills and career aspirations. On the other hand, the ‘Opportunity Marketplace’ offers personalised development recommendations for learning, mentorship, and career opportunities.
Together, these tools are helping the organisation move towards a more skills-based approach, while empowering employees to take ownership of their growth.
Supporting wellbeing through belonging and psychological safety
Underlying these initiatives is AtkinsRéalis’ commitment to creating an inclusive environment where employees feel supported, valued, and a sense of belonging.
“Every employee and engineer in our organisation, every design and decision they make will directly impact public safety and quality of life,” explains Cindy Chiu, HR Director – Asia, AtkinsRéalis (pictured below).
To support this responsibility, AtkinsRéalis places strong emphasis on employee wellbeing – both professionally and personally.
The organisation fosters a transparent and psychologically safe environment where employees feel comfortable speaking up, sharing ideas, and raising concerns early. Initiatives such as a 24/7 global ‘Employee Assistance Programme’ reinforce trust and support mental health resilience, while the global programme ‘Different Makes A Difference’ recognises the uniqueness of every employee.
Looking ahead, AtkinsRéalis remains focused on bringing its EVP to life through locally relevant programmes and initiatives, ensuring the employee experience resonates across different markets while supporting long-term organisational growth.
“Ultimately, by creating a culture built on trust, openness, and wellbeing, we enable our teams to navigate challenges effectively while maintaining the highest standards of safety and quality,” affirms Cindy.
As James Cullens, Chief Human Resources Officer, puts it, the organisation’s commitment to its people is simple: “As we grow, you grow.”
Photos / AtkinsRéalis
ALSO READ: Breaking Barriers: Cindy Chiu on creating pathways for women to thrive in engineering
Read more interviews on why organisations have won trophies for their HR practices – head over to our Behind the Win section!
Ready to be the next winning stars? Join our upcoming HR Excellence Awards to highlight your HR success, or enter the HR Vendors of the Year Awards to showcase your impact on clients’ talent strategies. Reach out to Gloria Yam to learn how you can enter the Awards and stand a chance to win.
We’re also inviting senior HR professionals to join our esteemed panel of judges. If you’re passionate about recognising excellence and shaping the future of the industry, contact Selina Kwok to explore judging opportunities.
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