08 October 2021 – International engineering, design and advisory company Aurecon has appointed Damon Howes as its new Market Managing Director, Defence & National Security. Joining the firm in October 2021, Mr Howes will be based in Canberra and provide leadership across Australia.

Aurecon’s Managing Director, Clients & Markets, Angus Leitch, said Mr Howes’ strategic mind and inclusive leadership skills will further improve Aurecon’s long-standing and strong relationship with Defence, helping to support the delivery of complex assets, infrastructure and digital enablement.

With more than 30 years of experience in roles across both the military and business, Mr Howes has managed large-scale diverse teams across business development, project management, operations, strategic analysis and capability development. Most recently he led a national team as Executive Director – Defence at JLL, where he was responsible for account strategy.

“I take a values-based, outcome focused approach, based on strong relationships. As a leader, my priority is to unite team members behind a common goal and create an inclusive environment.” Mr Howes said.

His appointment comes as the Defence & National Security industry grapples with rapid digitisation.

Mr Howes said that there are multiple opportunities for digitally enabled engineering, design and advisory solutions to help build and sustain Defence capability.

“Digitalisation is now a core capability to help deliver on Defence’s strategic goals: realising a sustainable and safe Estate, using investment capital and industry resources more efficiently and strengthening industry capacity and capability.”

“The Defence operating environment is continually transforming. Aurecon’s ongoing support for Defence includes the deployment of game-changing digital solutions, and asset management and infrastructure expertise.” Mr Howes said.

Recognised in the Australian Defence Magazine’s Top 40 Contractors list, Aurecon has a long and successful history supporting Defence and National Security agencies.

“Damon Howes brings substantial leadership experience across military and business to our team. He understands the inherent challenges of the Defence context and sees opportunities for further improving their capability.” Mr Leitch said.

Mr Howes replaces David Barnes as Market Managing Director, Defence & National Security following his move to a new role at Aurecon as Market Managing Director, Sustaining Capital.