Muhammad Haidir: solving complex challenges and delivering sustainable solutions in Indonesia

Muhammad shares insights on how he is helping to build resilient cities, foster collaboration and champion sustainable change in Indonesia as part of his role in our water team.

Tell us about your role and where you are based

I’m a principal project manager for our water team in Indonesia. I work on projects that supply services to help our communities thrive. My role includes overseeing planning, coordination and stakeholder engagement. I also provide technical expertise in water supply, drainage and wastewater management to support the project team’s delivery.

I live in a suburban area near South Jakarta. It’s well-connected, with easy access to major public transport services, especially the mass rapid transit (MRT) system. Being close to the MRT makes commuting smoother and supports more sustainable travel. It also links us to key urban areas, making the location practical and well-integrated with the city.

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

I graduated in environmental engineering and always aspired to become an engineering consultant because it allows me to solve complex challenges and deliver sustainable solutions. Mott MacDonald has always been one of my dream companies due to its global reach and commitment to excellence. After graduating from university, I built my experience for 12 years and then joined Mott MacDonald, fulfilling a long-term goal. I’ve been part of the team for three years and am really enjoying the culture of excellence, as well as the exciting and innovative projects I’ve worked on.

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

I have been working on projects focused on building flood-resilient cities in Indonesia. Our team provided technical assistance to help identify flood risk management strategies, which created meaningful impacts for communities by improving resilience and safety.

I have also been involved in a key project to support cities in increasing sewerage house connections, helping communities gain better access to sanitation, improving public health and quality of life.

What made these projects truly rewarding was their holistic approach, not only technical solutions but also integrating gender equality, disability and social inclusion (GEDSI), climate change considerations and behaviour change. These programs strengthened infrastructure while building capacity within local governments and communities to bring sustainable outcomes.

How do you collaborate with colleagues to achieve common goals?

Actively listening to my team’s input helps to create an inclusive and collaborative environment. I encourage agile and team-based approaches to problem-solving, allowing flexibility in how tasks are executed while maintaining accountability. By trusting my team and giving them space to grow, we foster a supportive atmosphere where everyone feels valued and empowered. This approach strengthens teamwork and encourages continuous improvement and innovation across our projects.

What advice would you give to someone looking to start their career at Mott MacDonald?

Be proactive, stay curious and embrace every opportunity to learn and grow. At Mott MacDonald, your story is yours to shape—so take initiative, build strong relationships and don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Seek mentorship, welcome feedback and connect your work to meaningful purpose and impact. Most importantly, be authentic and resilient. Every challenge is a chance to grow, and every contribution helps shape a better future.

Describe what the Mott Mac Life means to you in three words

Continuous learning, collaboration and growth.

How does Mott MacDonald create an environment where you feel empowered and supported?

Mott MacDonald creates an empowering environment by providing continuous opportunities for growth. The company connects you with international expertise, which broadens your perspective and enhances your capabilities. I’ve also been offered to take part in training programmes that have helped me to evolve my knowledge and stay at the forefront of industry standards. Most importantly, Mott MacDonald sets a very high benchmark for consultants, which challenges you to perform at your best and continuously improve.