Meet one of Mott MacDonald Bentley's brilliant people: Monisha Alagesan, project leader

Meet one of our brilliant people: Monisha Alagesan, a project leader in the Midlands.

Monisha speaks about her work on Mott MacDonald Bentley's (MMB) Severn Trent framework, delivering excellence on AMP8 UV schemes, and shares advice for anyone looking to shape their career at MMB.

Tell us about your role and where you are based

I'm project leader working mostly on our framework with Severn Trent.

My focus is leading several AMP8 UV schemes in the region, having previously worked on a number of AMP7 UV schemes.

My role is all about making sure key project deliverables on a project are met, for example mechanical, civil and electrical milestones. As well as working on the project specific health and safety files and ensuring procurement schedules are in order.

How do you deliver excellence in your role?

I deliver excellence on projects by aligning project goals with business priorities and stakeholder expectations. I maintain a transparent line of communication with key stakeholders, providing regular updates through a series of demonstrations and feedback loops - helping to build a sense of trust and transparency. Finally, I build a motivated project team, where roles were clearly defined and agile methods of working are promoted to keep momentum going.

What advice would you give to someone looking to shape their own story at MMB?

"Take pride in your work and own your impact."

Excellence is recognised here, and initiative goes a long way. So, take every opportunity and make it a learning experience - while taking time to build strong, authentic connections across teams, as your network will be one of your greatest assets.

Describe a moment when you learned something valuable from a colleague.

During a complex project delivery, a colleague shared a simple but powerful approach to stakeholder engagement: listen more than you speak.

By observing how they built trust through active listening and empathy, I learned technical excellence alone isn't enough - relationships and understanding are key to successful leadership.

What opportunities have you had to grow your specialism or develop your career here?

The support I've received whilst working towards my chartership. During this process, I was assigned a mentor to help me complete various requirements and provide the opportunity for support and collaboration throughout my chartership journey.

What has been your proudest achievement?

My proudest achievement is stepping into the water industry as a newcomer. My career journey has seen me working in the electrical sector in India for companies like Schneider and Hitachi, before taking a leap into the water sector when I moved across to the UK.

I joined MMB and was given a great deal of trust and responsibility during the final stages of the AMP7 UV scheme, with a number of unresolved challenges which still required solutions. Despite the steep learning curve, I quickly analysed what was missing, collaborated with colleagues and re-engaged stakeholders, resulting in a successful project delivery.

What advice would you give to your younger self?

Be confident in your voice and your values. Don’t wait to be ready – step forward, take the lead, and trust that growth comes through experience. Collaboration and courage will shape your journey.

What characteristic do you admire in other people?

One characteristic I really admire is the ability to stay cool, calm and collected – even during a difficult or complex situation. I admire this as it shows a person can handle pressure and are willing to take a risk.

How do you manage your safety and wellbeing?

Through finding a work-life balance. To achieve this I step outside, explore new places and meet new people.

Finish this sentence: I feel included when...

I am made to feel trusted and made to feel like I have known someone for a long time, so I can free share thoughts, feelings and ideas.

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Interested in a career at JN Bentley?

Check out our careers page or get in touch with the team at recruitment@jnbentley.co.uk.