Kate Willard OBE, Chair of the Thames Estuary Growth Board and the Government appointed Estuary Envoy, has been appointed by the Chancellor as a Commissioner at the National Infrastructure Commission.
Kate brings a wealth for experience with her to the role. A highly sought-after consultant, Kate has lived and worked in Hungary, France and Belgium, established the first UK-Hungarian cultural partnership trust and was CEO of the UK’s first rural regeneration company. Kate is on Arts Council England’s National Council, and chairs both Arts Council Area Council North and the Board of Teesside International Airport. She is a Churchill Fellow and Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts (FRSA) and an ambassador for Women on Boards.
Kate Willard OBE, said “I am deeply honoured to be appointed alongside such eminent colleagues. Having worked for a number of years accelerating economic growth in regions across the country and in Europe, I am passionate about the importance of thoughtful infrastructure and its role unlocking good, green growth. This appointment perfectly complements the dual role I hold at the Thames Estuary as Chair and independent Envoy, where infrastructure will play such a key a role in releasing the region’s huge untapped potential. I am so looking forward to my work with the Commission.”
Alongside Kate, the Chancellor has appointed Nicholas Winser CBE and Professor Jim Hall, and is reappointing Neale Coleman CBE, Julia Prescot, and Andy Green CBE for further five-year terms.
The Exchequer Secretary to the Treasury, Helen Whately, said:
“The National Infrastructure Commission plays an invaluable role providing expert and impartial advice to the government on the UK’s long-term infrastructure challenges.
“These appointments will ensure we have the right expertise to succeed as we level up opportunities, boost the economy and help create jobs.”
Chair of the Commission, Sir John Armitt, said:
“I am pleased to welcome Nick, Kate and Jim to the Commission at a critical time for ensuring long term infrastructure policy helps address some of society’s biggest challenges. Their expertise will be particularly useful as we work towards publication of the second National Infrastructure Assessment next year.
“I would also like to pay tribute to David Fisk as he steps down from the Commission. David has helped us chart the steps necessary to deliver a low carbon future for energy and the interventions needed to safeguard the resilience of vital services upon which we all rely. We wish David all the best for his future work in infrastructure and beyond.”
The Chancellor has appointed Nicholas Winser, Kate Willard and Jim Hall as NIC Commissioners until April 2027, with the appointments taking effect from 1 May 2022.
Find out more: nic.org.uk/news/three-new-commission-members-appointed