Education
Studied civil engineering at Coventry University then Imperial College London.
My engineering degree meant I had an aptitude for mathematics, so I initially became a maths teacher at a school in East London. I have some incredible memories that helped build my confidence in addressing large and challenging audiences.
I then joined Arup, which was constructing the Essex section of the M25, followed by other engineering firms including Nichols Group, and Bechtel.
In 2003, I was asked to join the Strategic Rail Authority (SRA) as its technical director. Representing the UK at the European Rail Agency proved useful in understanding the thought processes elsewhere.
I joined London Underground (LU) as the director of engineering, a first job being to manage the replacement of the ‘temporary’ signalling on the Jubilee line. Another challenge was ‘cooling the Tube’ as more trains result in more energy dissipated and rising temperatures.
I also had responsibility for other line upgrades including the Victoria line and station upgrades, including Victoria, Tottenham Court Road, Bond Street and Bank, all of which used innovative procurement that incentivised value not just cost. For all this work on LU, I was awarded a CBE in 2014.
My hobbies
I have a passion for training and education, having served on committees focusing on the teaching of STEM subjects in schools.
Promoting opportunities for people of all backgrounds to realise their full potential in engineering and other professions.
An avid rugby fan (previously a player), gardening, walking, music (I play guitar).
The most complex thing I’ve made out of Lego
A model bridge. It took a few hours – it wasn’t a complex one.