Valerie Evans

When did you join Atkins?

I joined on 8 July 2002.

What’s your role and what are your key responsibilities?

International business development and project director.

Do you have any professional accreditations?

Bachelor of Architectural Studies (University of Cape Town), Bachelor of Architecture Degree (UCT), RIBA Part III (University of Westminster), Registered with Architects Registration Board, Member of Royal Institute of British Architects, Member of the International Union of Architects.

Why did you join Atkins?

After seven years developing my broader skills as a director of architecture within a construction company, I was keen to apply this knowledge to major projects within a multidisciplinary context.

What did you do before you joined Atkins?

I was born in South Africa and I am an architect by training. I spent 20 years developing my career through architectural design, management and then director roles. I became director of architecture within AMEC Construction in the 1990’s. Looking for new challenges, I joined Atkins in 2002 to run the Colchester Garrison project in the UK.

How do you describe what you do to friends and family?

Firstly, I say that what I do is fun and every day is different! My current role involves me in international business development and I seek opportunities for our designers to use their iconic design skills around the world.

What key projects have you worked on during your time at Atkins?

Colchester Garrison and Kazan Zoo and Botanical Gardens in Russia.

What are you currently working on?

We have recently won work in Cyprus: a mixed-use office development in Nicosia and a landmark tower in Limassol. I am currently preparing proposals for a villa development and progressing bids for a high-rise office in Vietnam, a water park in Mauritius, residential tower and mall in Moscow.

What achievement are you most proud of?

Delivering successfully with my 180 – strong multidisciplinary design team the Colchester Garrison project. We were six months ahead of programme and on budget – to the satisfaction of the client.

What’s the most technically challenging project you’ve worked on at Atkins?

The Colchester Garrison project as it involved the delivery of 137 individual buildings and associated infrastructure.

How has your career developed at Atkins?

My career within Atkins has been a game of two halves. The first was spent on a single major project and the support from my director was brilliant. He gave me the confidence to test my own abilities but was always there to offer advice and guidance. The second half has been spent on international business development in support of the international architectural design team based in the UK.

How do architects and Atkins make a difference?

Client satisfaction is our focus and our international architectural team definitely goes the extra mile to ensure that our clients are not only satisfied but delighted with our design product.

How would you describe the culture at Atkins?

It’s collaborative, respectful, professional, technically proud, and inclusive.