Arup is expanding its capacity to address environmental challenges for major infrastructure projects. 

 

“As a firm, we see significant economic opportunities emerging from the global energy transition and our local strategy supports this vision,” said Arup’s Australia and New Zealand Managing Principal, Liam O’Donohue.

 

“To bolster our ability to navigate environmental approvals, an increasing area of concern for our clients, we have welcomed two new senior market leaders with extensive experience in impact assessments for energy projects.”

 

Under the new title of Strategic Market Lead – Renewable Energy and Environment, David Carberry and Jon Williamson each bring demonstrated experience in supporting renewable energy projects through environmental approvals. 

 

Based in Brisbane, David brings over 30 years’ experience as a project director and manager with an extensive background in renewable energy impact assessment and approvals. He has worked on numerous solar, wind, pumped hydro and battery projects across Queensland and NSW. 

 

Based in Sydney, Jon brings 25 years of experience in cross-discipline major project management, environmental approvals, engineering design, and community and stakeholder engagement across the renewable energy and complex infrastructure sectors. 

Built environment consultancy SJ Group, of which SMEC is a member company, has announced new leadership appointments to its Infrastructure + Energy business line.

 

James Phillis has been promoted to Chief Executive, succeeding Hari Poologasundram, who now serves as Senior Advisor. Murray Kretschmer joins as Chief Operating Officer, bringing over 25 years of experience from Arup, where he was COO for the Australasia region.

 

Sean Chiao, Group CEO of SJ Group says: “As infrastructure evolves globally, driven by decarbonisation, digitalisation, and the energy transition, our clients are looking to us for bold thinking and quality delivery. James and Murray bring the global experience and perspective to lead our Infrastructure + Energy business into its next chapter, creating enduring value for our clients, communities, and the planet.”

 

James Phillis and Murray Kretschmer, based in Singapore and Brisbane respectively, will oversee operations across more than 40 countries, where SJ Group delivers solutions in transport, energy, water, and environmental infrastructure.