Buro Happold announces new CEO
(UK) – James Bruce has been appointed as Buro Happold’s new Chief Executive Officer.
Previously the firm’s Chief Operating and Financial Officer, Bruce has announced plans to grow the business, which is active in 26 locations worldwide, doubling employee numbers over the next six years to create a better balance and resilience across regions. He hopes that in doing so, the firm can help to create a better, more sustainable world.
“It is a really exciting time for Buro Happold. We are continuing to expand our international markets where there is the best potential for us to grow as a business. This will create significant opportunities for both our people and our clients,” he said.
“Our heritage of tackling complex engineering challenges in the built environment puts us in the perfect position to advise and design exceptional solutions for our clients, anywhere in the world. We are enhancing our consultancy capabilities in addition to our world-renowned engineering expertise for a period of rapid acceleration in our industry.
“The business has delivered consistent global growth by strongly promoting a strategic focus on design, consultancy, sustainability, equity above all else, and driving best use of technology. What will not change as we move forward is any deviation from our principles of caring deeply about the legacy of our work and a collective courage and passion to create; this is what drives our culture. Where we have plans to grow, we will only do that by acquiring businesses that share our values and vision.”
Prior to joining Buro Happold in 2018, Bruce’s background is in building businesses outside of building engineering and consultancy. He has previously been CFO for a number of Omnicom and WPP subsidiaries, including Interbrand and Landor, and believes his track record in delivering growth in design focused businesses will add a fresh dynamic to Buro Happold’s expansion plans.
