My ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ Story: Sally Walters on becoming a civil and structural discipline lead
August 29, 2025
Sally leads a 300-strong Civil and Structural team for our Water group, shaping careers and the future of engineering at ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½
In the My ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ Story series, our designers, engineers, marketers, project managers, and leaders come together to share how their career journeys at ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ have shaped their lives and moved them closer to their goals.
What attracted you to a career at ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½?
I joined when ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ was new to the South West, bringing fresh opportunity to the region. I spoke to someone already here, and everything¡ªthe culture, values and people-first feel¡ªaligned with what I was looking for. It felt like the right move then and still does now.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I lead a team of nearly 300 civil and structural engineers across the UK, and I get to connect with people at every level, from apprentices to executive leadership. I also stay close to technical delivery, so my days are a mix of strategy, problem-solving, and people leadership. I love it.
How has your personal and professional development been supported at ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½?
In just six years, I¡¯ve held five roles, all through progression. I¡¯ve moved from project and framework management into operations and now discipline leadership. I¡¯ve been supported with senior leadership development, professional training, and mentoring. Each opportunity has challenged me, and ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ has backed me every step of the way.
What has been the standout project for you during your time at ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½?
Personally, being seconded to a client to lead the feasibility of a major new water treatment works was a huge milestone. I also played a key role in winning major AMP8 work, securing our future growth. Those wins, and the trust placed in me, are what stand out most.
What are your ambitions for your future at ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½?
I don¡¯t have a set goal to be managing director or chief executive. For me, it¡¯s about continuing to grow, be challenged and learn. I¡¯ve developed massively in the last few years¡ªand i¡®m still learning!¡ªand want to keep stepping outside my comfort zone. ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ makes that possible, and that¡¯s what motivates me.
What are your passions outside of work?
I love being outdoors¡ªI¡¯m big into CrossFit, dog walks, and have just started fishing! I also spend time with my family and volunteer in and outside of work, often still tied to engineering. It¡¯s a nice balance of switching off while staying connected to what I care about.
Why should others join the ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ team?
Our Water Civils team at ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½ offers endless opportunities across projects, regions and roles. Our structure gives you variety, challenge, and the chance to grow without changing company. You¡¯ll work with brilliant people, shape your own career, and join a culture that lives its values.
At ²ÝÝ®´«Ã½, our people are at the core of everything we do. For Sally, that means For Sally, that means a career where she¡¯s trusted to lead, supported to keep learning, and encouraged to step outside her comfort zone¡ªall while working with great people.
