Arup has appointed Richard Matthews as their aviation lead for the UK, Middle East and Africa region. 

Having joined Arup in 1977, Matthews has over 40 years’ experience in project management and engineering and will lead a specialist team of multidisciplinary engineers that work on major aviation projects across the globe. His focus will be on helping airports find ways of streamlining their business and become more efficient, while continually improving customer experience. 

Matthews has worked on some of the firm’s largest and most complex aviation projects including Heathrow’s Terminal 5 & 2, Hong Kong International Airport and Lisbon Airport, Portugal. During his career he has also led the design and construction of air traffic control towers in Mexico, India, UK and Ireland.  

Commenting on his appointment, Matthews said: “As airports operate in an increasingly competitive environment, efficiency is now more critical than ever. We’re helping airports improve their operations and facilities, and become more resilient by providing holistic solutions that deliver real business benefit. I look forward to taking on this new role.”

Ian Taylor, global leader of aviation said, “Richard’s expertise lies in the rigorous analysis of complex issues from operational to technical challenges. This is coupled with his creative approach into devising practical integrated solutions. His extensive knowledge of operational processes, technological advancements, and information and control systems gives him the foundation to effectively lead our teams across the business’s UKMEA region.”

Matthews takes over the role from Dervilla Mitchell, who has been appointed Arup UKMEA chair.