Meet John Reavy: trusted advisor for global aviation

With a career rooted in aviation spanning global markets, John Reavy brings strategic leadership to the aviation market. Now based in Riyadh as aviation director for the Middle East, he continues to build trusted client relationships and guide complex programmes with expert insight and integrity. From shaping airport expansion projects in the UK to leading airport planning and advisory across 10 countries, John’s journey reflects a passion for aviation, a commitment to collaboration, and a drive to deliver lasting impact.

Tell us about your role and where you are based

In my role as aviation director, based in Riyadh, I am responsible for leading business growth and development as well as driving technical excellence through project delivery.

Acting as a trusted adviser, I connect technical and specialist resources across our global teams to deliver the very best for our clients.

My move to Riyadh was motivated by both professional and personal factors. I’ve spent most of my career in the Middle East so, for me, the large projects, fast pace and wide range of opportunities in the region feels normal and is exciting.

Mott MacDonald was recently appointed as sole supplier on the Airports Masterplan Framework by Saudi airport owner Matarat Holding. In this role, we will support Matarat with the development of 25 Saudi airports. I will be leading our collaboration with Matarat and delivery of the framework as account lead.
Saudi Arabia, in particular, is undergoing rapid transformation as part of Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy, promote tourism and enhance connectivity.

Aviation plays a critical role in this vision by linking remote communities to major hubs like Riyadh, Jeddah and Dammam. The country’s size and lack of extensive rail infrastructure make air travel the primary mode of connectivity, which adds strategic importance to airport development.

Living and working in Saudi has reinforced my belief that aviation is not just about infrastructure — it’s a social connector and an economic enabler. The cultural changes I’ve witnessed, such as the increasing number of women working in immigration roles and market changes, such as the launch of start-up airline Riyadh Air, highlight how aviation is intertwined with societal progress.

These experiences have deepened my appreciation for aviation as a catalyst for national growth and global integration.

Why did you choose you career path? Why Mott MacDonald?

During my career I’ve worked for airlines, airports, the International Air Transport Association, which is a trade body, and now in consulting at Mott MacDonald. This varied experience means I have a holistic view of the aviation ecosystem.
Airlines drive demand and influence airport planning, while airports serve as critical infrastructure for national and regional growth.

Understanding the importance of service culture and digital transformation as well as the operational pressures on physical infrastructure helps to deliver projects that meet the needs of all stakeholders.

In consulting at Mott MacDonald, I’ve learned how to integrate these perspectives into strategic planning, design and delivery.

What are some of the most exciting or innovative projects you’ve been trusted to lead or contribute to?

The expansion of Stansted Airport in the UK was a standout project. It started as a feasibility study during a challenging period at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. It evolved into a multimillion pound design project.

The airport faced peak-hour constraints and aggressive growth from its base carrier airline, Ryanair. We explored multiple scenarios to achieve capacity targets cost-effectively while maintaining the architectural integrity of the terminal building.

We were committed to client engagement despite the difficult working environment during COVID-19. We created an on-site “bubble team” to work closely with the client, which built trust and accelerated decision making.

What started out initially as a small project scope became a long-term relationship. We led the project through RIBA stages from feasibility to detailed design.

Similar principles have contributed to the success of other projects, including the expansion of JFK International Airport in New York and Heathrow Airport in London. We combined global expertise with local presence, ensuring continuity and quality throughout the project lifecycle.

What advice would you give to someone starting a career in aviation, especially about relocating internationally and adapting to new cultures?

First and foremost, make sure you have a genuine passion for aviation. It’s a demanding sector, and enjoying what you do is essential. Be bold and ambitious — don’t just wait for opportunities, create them. Early on in my career, I wrote directly to the vice chairman of Emirates to request a placement for my master’s thesis. Tactful audacity can open doors, and on that occasion it did.

Relocating internationally requires adaptability and an open mind. Embrace cultural differences and see them as opportunities rather than obstacles.

Don’t let fear of the unknown hold you back early in your career. Challenges like redundancy or unprecedented global events are inevitable — view them as learning experiences. Make sure you maintain a sense of fun and teamwork. Collaboration and enjoyment are key to sustaining a long and fulfilling career.

You will be amazed at the breadth and depth of what Mott MacDonald delivers, so be inquisitive and grab opportunities to work with different colleagues.

Can you share an example of how the company culture has helped you achieve your personal and professional goals?

Our culture is built on a strong foundation of values that guide our behaviour and inform our relationships with colleagues, clients and partners.

We support the development of our colleagues, regardless of their stage of career. A small example: in our monthly team meetings we give colleagues the opportunity to share career stories and get to know one another at a deeper level beyond day-to-day delivery. It’s a really worthwhile initiative.

At Mott MacDonald, you are encouraged to embrace change and create opportunities that make a lasting difference for our clients and future generations.

I am respected for who I am, the skills I have and the way I work with my team. 
Our strong ethical approach means we uphold high standards of safety and promote wellbeing. We are encouraged to challenge ourselves and look for extra value in the way we engage with our clients and deliver our work.

These values allow us all to do our best — leading projects and delivering world-class results for our clients and partners.