Mark Dearden

Executive Director, Infrastructure Projects Delivery (IPD)

Mark became Executive Director, Infrastructure Projects Delivery (IPD) on 1 October 2025.

Mark joined AWE in January 2025 to lead the Infrastructure Projects Delivery (IPD) programme as Portfolio Director. His vision extends beyond project delivery, he is passionate about developing people, fostering leadership, and building a legacy of excellence. Mark champions collaboration, transparency, and bold decision-making, believing that success is built through cohesive teamwork and learning from challenges.

Mark is a seasoned project and programme leader with over 30 years of experience at executive and strategic levels across infrastructure, defence, and energy sectors. A Chartered Civil and Structural Engineer, Mark has led complex initiatives in oil and gas, civil nuclear, and submarine programmes, both in the UK and internationally.

His career spans 16 years of global experience, having delivered major projects across the Caribbean, US, Asia, and Africa. Mark has held pivotal leadership roles, including spearheading the MEH Alliance at Sizewell C, resetting infrastructure and submarine programmes at Devonport, and contributing to the UK defence programme supporting Ukraine. He also led the key assurance review of HMS Vanguard during its major refit, reinforcing his deep commitment to the Continuous At-Sea Deterrent (CASD).

Mark is married with two children and enjoys cycling, cooking, and spending time with his family.