AECOM announces key leadership appointments

February 10, 2025 at 06:55 AM EST

AECOM, the trusted global infrastructure leader, today announced key leadership appointments to further strengthen its global operations and enhance client delivery. Bane Gaiser has been named Buildings + Places Global Business Line Chief Executive, Richard Whitehead as Europe & India Regional Chief Executive, and Sam Donelson as U.S. East & Latin America Regional Chief Executive.

With extensive industry experience, including long-standing careers at AECOM, these leaders will oversee operations in their respective business lines and regions, focusing on strategic growth, operational excellence, and client service.

“These appointments reinforce the depth of AECOM’s leadership bench and our commitment to cultivating talent from within, with Richard, Bane, and Sam bringing deep technical expertise, a strong client focus, and a proven track record of success,” said Troy Rudd, AECOM’s chief executive officer. “Trends across our markets remain favorable, and we are well-positioned to capitalize on significant opportunities in these sectors as we continue strengthening our business around the world and delivering industry-leading solutions for our clients.”

Mr. Gaiser has been with AECOM for more than a decade, with nearly 30 years of experience in architecture, design, and executive leadership. Before leading the U.S. East & Latin America region, he oversaw the U.S. West Buildings + Places practice, where he managed architecture, engineering, interiors, planning, and consulting strategy. His expertise spans large-scale program management, strategic market expansion, and integrated design solutions.

Mr. Whitehead has been with AECOM for more than 10 years, bringing three decades of experience in infrastructure, planning, and design. Most recently, he served as Buildings + Places Global Business Line Chief Executive, leading a global team in the delivery of sustainable planning, design, and engineering solutions. His background includes extensive leadership in complex project execution, technical excellence, and multidisciplinary team management.

Mr. Donelson brings more than 30 years of experience in infrastructure and operations, including 11 years at AECOM. He most recently served as Transportation Regional Business Line Leader for the New York Metro area, overseeing highways, transit, aviation, and ports initiatives. Prior to AECOM, he spent 20 years with the South Jersey Transportation Authority, managing capital programs and regional mobility initiatives.

In conjunction with these leadership appointments, Colin Wood will be departing from his role as Europe & India Regional Chief Executive after nearly eight years with AECOM.

Mr. Whitehead, Mr. Gaiser, and Mr. Donelson’s appointments are effective immediately.

About AECOM

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.