We are pleased to welcome Michelle McDowell who has joined Civic+, the parent company of Civic Engineers, as a non-executive director.

One of very few women at the top of the profession, Michelle brings 38 years of experience in construction, most recently as Principal and Chair of Civil and Structural Engineering at BDP.

She was the first woman vice-president of the Institution of Civil Engineers at the age of 37, the first woman chair of the Association for Consultancy and Engineering and received two lifetime achievement awards as well as an MBE in 2010 for services to construction. She was Veuve Clicquot Business Woman of the Year 2011.

She says: “I am really impressed by Civic Engineers and admire the commitment and ethos of the leadership team.  I know that our shared values and insights will make a powerful combination.

Civic Engineers is all about its people. It is a forward-thinking company with an enviable reputation as one of the most progressive, sustainability-focussed engineering consultancies in the UK.”

“I am passionate about collaboration and enjoy supporting engineers to strengthen their communication skills and promote the vital contribution they make to the built environment and addressing the climate challenge.  I will continue to make the case for equality, diversity and inclusion in engineering, contributing to initiatives where I can pass on my experiences.”

Michelle’s appointment to the board follows on from the hiring of Dominic Miller, co-founder and former chief operating officer of Fishawack Health, who joined Civic+ as a non-executive director in the summer.

Civic+ was launched in July as the parent company to Civic Engineers. Its board comprises CEO Stephen O’Malley, COO Julian Broster and new CFO Simon Edwards alongside two non-executive directors, Dominic Miller and Michelle.

Civic+ will create space to consider the strategic direction of the group, the incorporation of new complementary service offerings and other opportunities for growth.

Chief Executive, Stephen O’Malley, says: “It’s fantastic to welcome Michelle. It’s an amazing opportunity for us to be able to apply her incredible experience and knowledge of our industry.”

“Establishing Civic+ this summer has allowed us to clarify our vision for the business and where we want to see it grow. We have a great confidence in our principles and our deep-rooted sustainability pedigree is now recognised and valued by a widening portion of the market and society.”