Global engineering and development consultancy Mott MacDonald has appointed Rachel Ellison to the newly created role of operations director for the UK and Europe, strengthening its regional leadership across infrastructure, water and environmental services.
Ellison will work alongside Richard Risdon, who holds a dual role as managing director for UK and Europe and group strategy director, with responsibility for translating group strategy into delivery across the region.
Leadership focused on sustainable growth
In her new position, Ellison will focus on driving profitable, sustainable and strategically aligned growth, supporting the delivery of complex programmes across sectors central to the energy transition, climate adaptation and environmental resilience.
She brings more than five years’ experience as managing director for Mott MacDonald’s advisory and programme delivery business in the UK and Europe, where she led growth in strategic advisory services and large-scale programme, project and commercial management.
Prior to this, Ellison led the firm’s water and environment business across the region, overseeing work spanning water resources, environmental protection and climate resilience.
Strengthening regional delivery capability
Mott MacDonald said Ellison’s experience across technical delivery, business leadership and strategy would support the firm’s continued role in delivering infrastructure and environmental programmes across the UK and Europe.
Commenting on her appointment, Rachel Ellison said:
“As a key region for Mott MacDonald, the opportunity to develop and support the growth of our UK and European business is incredibly exciting. I’m looking forward to working closely with our operational teams to strengthen our business, deliver our strategy and champion our people.”
Further leadership appointments
Ellison will be succeeded as managing director for advisory and programme delivery by Kerry Hancock, who moves from her role as regional development manager. Hancock brings experience across advisory, programme delivery and multiple market sectors.
At the same time, Sally Russell has been appointed managing director for Mott MacDonald’s water and environment business. Russell previously led the firm’s health division and has held senior roles across water, advisory and design services.
Tim Hill will move into a technical director role, supporting delivery of the Strategic Resource Options Programme.
Richard Risdon said the appointments strengthen leadership capacity and support delivery for clients across the region.
