Expert to lead strategy on Northern transport and infrastructure
The Institute of Directors (IoD) has appointed Dr Alan James as its regional Ambassador for transport and infrastructure.
Dr James is a former vice-president of Virgin Hyperloop One and has led Expert Alliance, a Northumberland-based specialist strategic infrastructure practice, since 2002.
He has more than 20 years’ experience in transport and infrastructure roles, including roles as project director for HS2, the Stoke Route and chief executive, UK Ultraspeed for Siemens/Thyssen Krupp.
His work explores how cities, regions and countries can gain strategic economic advantage though innovation in infrastructure and setting the agenda on the deployment of fast-evolving and rapidly converging technologies and systems that are redefining mobility.
He will deliver his first speech as an IoD Ambassador at an Open Doors at Cloth Hall Court, Leeds, on 13 November. The free to attend event will also be attended by the Archbishop of York Dr John Sentamu and IoD Head of EU and Trade Policy Allie Renison.
Dr James said: “I am delighted and honoured to serve as the regional ambassador for transport and infrastructure in Yorkshire and the North East. I look forward to helping the IoD to shape a policy that is broader than just transport, positioning infrastructure itself as a key competitive advantage, not just an enabler.”
Natalie Sykes, IoD regional director, added: “Anyone who has heard Alan speak will know about his passion for transport and infrastructure, not just short to medium term projects but revolutionary, game-changing technology such as Hyperloop. We’re delighted to have him on board.”
The IoD Ambassador network consists of high-profile business leaders who represent and promote the IoD in their area. The team also includes diversity and inclusion specialist Sharon Jandu, lawyer and Policy Voice Ambassador Rashmi Dube and international trade and healthcare expert Ian Garner.
The IoD this year announced a merger of its Yorkshire and North East regions to create a powerful lobbying voice for the North of England. The enlarged IoD North East region has one regional committee and six branches that support local business communities.
