AtkinsRéalis has appointed Colette Carroll OBE as Global Market Lead for Rail, reinforcing its ambition to accelerate growth across one of its most established and strategically important markets.
The appointment comes at a time of sustained global investment in rail infrastructure, as governments and transport authorities seek to modernise networks, decarbonise transport and improve passenger experience. The move underlines AtkinsRéalis’ commitment to positioning itself at the forefront of rail transformation and supporting clients through a period of significant industry change.
Rail remains one of AtkinsRéalis’ largest global markets, with a comprehensive end‑to‑end offer spanning design and engineering, planning and feasibility, project and programme management, project delivery, and operations and maintenance (O&M).
The company’s international rail portfolio includes some of the world’s most high‑profile and complex programmes, such as Canada’s first high‑speed rail link, London’s Elizabeth Line, the fully automated Canada Line, Britain’s Transpennine Route Upgrade, the Federal Way Link Extension in Washington State, and Dubai Metro, the longest automated driverless rail system globally.
As Global Market Lead for Rail, Carroll will focus on extending the reach of these capabilities across regions, strengthening strategic partnerships and ensuring clients can access the full breadth of AtkinsRéalis’ global expertise.
Kate Kenny, Chief Growth Officer at AtkinsRéalis, said:
“AtkinsRéalis has the multi-disciplinary expertise and global reach to help clients in high-stakes markets navigate complexity and transformation”.
“Through her deep sector expertise, Colette has a track record of anticipating client needs and assembling the right capabilities to address them - she'll ensure we're doing that across our global rail business as this market enters a significant period of growth.”
Carroll was appointed Managing Director of Transportation for AtkinsRéalis UK & Ireland in late 2023, leading the delivery of major rail, highways and local transport programmes. These include East West Rail and the Midlands Rail Hub, alongside strategic advisory services for public‑sector clients.
In addition to her UK and Ireland role, she has supported rail clients across the Middle East and North America, drawing on UK technical and delivery expertise to address international challenges.
She joined AtkinsRéalis in 2022 as Strategic Rail Market Director, following senior leadership roles at HS2 and in government. Her experience includes infrastructure and operations planning for the London 2012 Olympic Games. In recognition of her contribution to the sector, Carroll was awarded an OBE in 2013 for services to the rail industry and currently serves on the Liverpool–Manchester Railway Partnership Board.
Image credit: AtkinsRéalis
