InsightMeet Robin Reed: thriving in the discomfort zone
Robin Reed is the new Managing Director of TSA Riley’s Australian business. His career has been shaped by bold decisions, inspiring mentors, and embracing discomfort. We sat down with Robin to hear about his career journey, the lessons he’s learned, and his vision for TSA Riley as we continue delivering transformative impact for clients and communities across Australia.
The leaflet that launched a career
Robin’s career journey began in a UK classroom, where a geography teacher named Mr Henry left an indelible mark. Inspired by Mr Henry’s passion and his natural curiosity, Robin pursued geography at university. “I loved the subject, really, and always had an interest in the built environment and the natural world,” he explains. “I just wanted to know more about the world around me.”
But geography wasn’t a field with a clear career path. “It’s not like law or medicine,” Robin says. “I eventually stumbled across a career leaflet for transport planning. It mentioned geography as a qualifying degree, and I thought: perfect.”
That decision set Robin on a path that would take him from local projects in Brighton, UK to global roles at Mott MacDonald—and eventually, to TSA Riley in Australia.
Turning resistance into results: a city transformed
Early in his career, Robin worked on several transformative projects with Brighton and Hove City Council in the UK. “The Green Party had just taken control of the City Council, and they came in with a bold sustainable transport agenda,” Robin explains.
Over the next few years, Robin and his team implemented initiatives that redefined how people moved around the city. “We designed projects that got people out of cars and onto bikes and buses. We tackled accident-prone areas, turning them into safer, more pleasant spaces for everyone.”
But innovation often meets resistance. “There was a lot of pushback from local residents, but we stood firm. Technically and politically, we knew it was the right thing to do.”
Fifteen years on, Robin’s projects in Brighton and Hove continue to make an impact. The city became a model for sustainable transport, winning multiple awards and attracting global attention, influencing urban planning in the UK and beyond.
Left: Robin engaging with colleagues at TSA Riley.
Top right: Robin with TSA Riley colleagues Luc Ramalinga (Regional General Manager | ACT) on the left and Luke Rogers (Regional General Manager | SA) on the right.
Bottom right: Robin, second from the right, with colleagues at a UK industry event where his project won a prestigious national award.
Out of the comfort zone, into Australia
Robin’s career took a significant turn at Mott MacDonald, where he was selected as a top 50 global talent. This recognition led to his participation in a career-defining leadership programme spanning 2 years, giving him global exposure and boosting his confidence.
The programme paired Robin with a coach who offered a life-changing perspective: “You’re capable of a lot more—you just don’t realise it yet. You need to push yourself out of your comfort zone.”
That advice led Robin to take a leap of faith and move to Australia—with his family by his side. “I was terrified,” he admits. “You leave behind your professional network, your technical experience doesn’t count for as much, and you don’t know the local standards. And it wasn’t just me—I was responsible for my family’s well-being and future.”
The risk paid off, opening doors and ultimately leading to his role at TSA Riley. Ever since, Robin has viewed discomfort as a hallmark of growth. “Every time you feel uncomfortable, you’re back in your learning zone,” he says.
Transformative impact at TSA Riley
Robin joined TSA Riley in early 2024 as the Regional General Manager for Victoria, where he quickly made an impact by fostering strong relationships with clients and teams. Now, as Managing Director, Robin is unifying the company’s operations across Australia and driving the business towards sustainable growth.
“What excites me most about TSA Riley is the diversity of our projects and people,” Robin says. “From New South Wales to the Northern Territory, every region has its own opportunities and challenges. My role is to bring those pieces together and build a business that delivers sustainable, transformative impact.”
Robin is clear about what sets TSA Riley apart. “Our business is built on relationships,” he explains. “It’s not just about the projects we deliver—it’s about how we collaborate with clients, colleagues, and communities. That’s what makes us unique and why we continue to grow.”
This emphasis on collaboration extends beyond client relationships. Robin is passionate about fostering a cohesive and supportive internal culture. “The culture here is fantastic,” he says. “People stay because they feel invested and see opportunities for growth. Even when we acquire other businesses, it’s not just about the client base—it’s about the people. They’re what makes this company strong.”
Robin also stresses the importance of being proactive in addressing challenges. “Acknowledging and addressing problems early is critical,” he explains. “It’s better to face issues head-on than let them fester. That builds trust and improves morale, which ultimately strengthens the business.”
Looking ahead, Robin envisions a united Australian business that contributes to TSA Riley’s global success. “We’re working towards a 5-year vision to grow the group to 2,000+ people, and Australia plays a crucial role in that plan. By aligning our teams, strategies, and client focus, we’ll continue to deliver meaningful results.”
Top left: Robin enjoying the iconic Australian sausage sizzle.
Top centre: Robin at the 2024 National Project Management Achievement Awards with the TSA Riley Airservices OneSKY project team.
Bottom left: Robin and his sons a few years ago in the UK, celebrating the one that didn’t get away!
Right: Robin presenting on a project at the London Olympic Park.
Fishing, snags, and châteaux: a lighter side
To round off our conversation, we asked Robin a few questions about his life in Australia. His answers reveal a leader who has fully embraced life Down Under.
What’s the most Aussie thing you’ve experienced?
“There are so many,” Robin laughs. “But going to the beach on Christmas Day is definitely up there. It’s such a contrast to the UK—where you’d be inside shivering.”
Robin has also embraced iconic Aussie traditions. “The Bunnings sausage sizzle felt like a rite of passage. I’ve even been behind the barbecue at a local cricket fundraiser, asking people, ‘Onions with that?’ It felt like a proper milestone moment.”
He also volunteered to umpire at the local footy club, attempting to interpret the rules of AFL and control a bunch of under-9s on a Sunday morning. Clearly, it’s not just the professional discomfort zone Robin’s willing to step into.
What’s a favourite family pastime?
Robin’s love for fishing has become a special tradition with one of his sons. “He’s 11, and he’s exactly how I was at that age—completely hooked! We spend weekends casting lines and talking.”
And his other son? “Well, he’s the one jumping into the water!” Robin says with a grin.
If you weren’t in property and infrastructure, what would you be doing?
Accepting that the professional soccer dreams of his youth are out of reach, Robin imagines a simpler life. “I’d probably be running a château in France with a fishing lake out front. I can picture waking up, casting a line in the morning, enjoying French wine and pastries.”
Looking ahead
Robin is focused on leading TSA Riley into its next chapter, where collaboration, sustainable growth, and transformative impact take centre stage. “TSA Riley’s strength lies in its people and its relationships,” Robin says. “I’m proud to be part of a business that puts clients, colleagues, and communities at the heart of everything we do. Together, we’ll continue building something extraordinary.”