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Dr Alan Belfield, Chair of Arup Group, brings global business experience to London First board

Ria Patel Ria Patel UKIMEA Press Office,London
12 August 2019

London First, the capital’s leading business campaign group, today announced that Dr Alan Belfield will join its board.

Dr Belfield, Chair of Arup Group and its former Chief Operating Officer, will assume his role with immediate effect. He forms part of a strong, dynamic board which is helping London First tackle important issues facing the capital at a critical time for the UK. Board members include Dame Inga Beale, former Chief Executive of Lloyd’s of London; Mark Reynolds, Chief Executive of Mace; Craig McWilliam, CEO of Grosvenor Britain and Ireland; and Evelyn Bourke, CEO of Bupa Group.

Dr Belfield leads Arup’s 15,000-strong team, overseeing a global business across advisory, design, engineering and planning in the cities, energy, transport and water markets. 

With a wealth of experience in planning, technology and consulting, Dr Belfield brings an unwavering commitment to ‘shape a better world’ to London First’s board through his commitment to sustainable development – a long-established part of Arup’s culture.

A strong advocate for ‘social usefulness’ – pursuing projects, initiatives and partnerships which improve the lives of those most in need – he is a Fellow of the Royal Academy of Engineering and a member of the UK Government’s Professional and Business Services Council.

Paul Drechsler CBE, Chairman of London First, said: “I am thrilled that Dr Alan Belfield has agreed to join the Board of London First. He will bring fabulous insights into the world’s great cities and Arup’s experience as a world leading professional services firm will enrich the board’s diversity of perspectives. 

He is enthusiastic, has a strong sense of social purpose and shares London First’s commitment to London’s long-term success.”

Dr Alan Belfield, Chair of Arup Group, added: “I am delighted to join the Board of London First. Keeping London as ‘the best city in the world to do business’ is an exciting opportunity.

Arup was founded on the belief that the built environment can change people’s lives for the better. I am very much looking forward to help London First apply insights from cities around the world to shape the future of our capital."

I am very much looking forward to help London First apply insights from cities around the world to shape the future of our capital ” Alan Belfield Alan Belfield Chair