Head of Programs – Global Business Services

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The Head of Programs is responsible for comprehensive management of the strategic initiative portfolio within Global Business Services (GBS). This role has direct accountability for leading the GBS transformation, overseeing the Global PMO, and driving enterprise-wide change management. Ensures structured execution, governance rigor, and business adoption across all major GBS programs.

This position offers flexibility for hybrid work schedules to include both in-office presence and telecommute/virtual work to be based from a variety of AECOM office locations.

Core Responsibilities:

1. GBS Transformation Program Leadership

• Act as the executive lead for the GBS transformation roadmap, including service model, location strategy, automation, and organizational design.
• Oversee planning, execution, benefit realization, and alignment with business and functional stakeholders.
• Manage program interdependencies and risks across various sectors and enablers.
• Ensure transparency, accountability, and disciplined tracking of value delivered.

2. PMO Governance and Delivery Oversight

• Lead the Global GBS PMO, establishing project management standards, tools, and review cadences.
• Maintain an integrated portfolio of GBS initiatives, ensuring alignment with enterprise priorities.
• Drive consistency in execution across service lines, regions, and enabling functions.
• Govern program budgets, resources, and milestones; report progress to GBS and enterprise leadership.

3. Change Management Ownership

• Build and lead the GBS change management capability, ensuring initiatives are understood, adopted, and embedded.
• Develop and execute comprehensive change plans, stakeholder engagement strategies, and training programs.
• Coordinate efforts with HR, Communications, centers, and Tower Leads to support local and global adoption.
• Monitor change impact and track behavioral, cultural, and performance outcomes.

4. Cross-Functional Integration

• Align PMO and change activities with operations, automation, technology, and process owners.
• Ensure business continuity while delivering transformation (“privilege of focus”).
• Enable cross-tower collaboration on shared initiatives, leveraging the PMO to coordinate dependencies.
• Partner closely with IT, Finance, and Compliance on delivery enablement and governance.

Key Success Metrics:

• On-time, on-budget program delivery
• Adoption and benefits realization of transformation initiatives
• Maturity and impact of the PMO function
• Effectiveness of change management (engagement, adoption, readiness)
• Confidence of leadership and stakeholders in GBS program execution

Minimum Requirements:

• BA/BS plus at least 14 years of relevant experience leading complex programs in shared services, transformation, or enterprise change, including at least 6 years of leadership experience, or demonstrated equivalency of experience and/or education 
• Extensive experience managing global portfolios with strong PMO and change credentials
• Strong business acumen and ability to communicate effectively with both executive and frontline audiences
• Ability to work across time zones and cultures; willingness to travel occasionally as required (30-40% possible)

Preferred Qualifications:

• Preferred formal certifications (PMP, PRINCE2, Lean Six Sigma, PROSCI)

• Sponsorship for relevant country work authorization is not available for this position, now or in the future

Offered rate of compensation (US locations only) will be based on individual education, qualifications, experience, and work location. The salary range for this position is $200,000 - $280,000.

About AECOM 

AECOM is proud to offer comprehensive benefits to meet the diverse needs of our employees. Depending on your employment status, AECOM benefits may include medical, dental, vision, life, AD&D, disability benefits, paid time off, leaves of absences, voluntary benefits, perks, flexible work options, well-being resources, employee assistance program, business travel insurance, service recognition awards, retirement savings plan, and employee stock purchase plan. 

AECOM is the global infrastructure leader, committed to delivering a better world. As a trusted professional services firm powered by deep technical abilities, we solve our clients’ complex challenges in water, environment, energy, transportation and buildings. Our teams partner with public- and private-sector clients to create innovative, sustainable and resilient solutions throughout the project lifecycle – from advisory, planning, design and engineering to program and construction management. AECOM is a Fortune 500 firm that had revenue of $16.1 billion in fiscal year 2024. Learn more at aecom.com. 

What makes AECOM a great place to work 

You will be part of a global team that champions your growth and career ambitions. Work on groundbreaking projects - both in your local community and on a global scale - that are transforming our industry and shaping the future. With cutting-edge technology and a network of experts, you’ll have the resources to make a real impact. Our award-winning training and development programs are designed to expand your technical expertise and leadership skills, helping you build the career you’ve always envisioned. Here, you’ll find a welcoming workplace built on respect, collaboration and community—where you have the freedom to grow in a world of opportunity. 

As an Equal Opportunity Employer, we believe in your potential and are here to help you achieve it. All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.