Ian Fraser receives 2026 ACE New Zealand President's Award

GHD Chairman Ian Fraser has received the 2026 ACE New Zealand President's Award, recognising his longstanding contribution to ACE New Zealand the industry association representing consulting and engineering firms in New Zealand, and the wider profession. 

The President’s Award recognises people whose leadership, commitment and influence have made a lasting contribution to ACE New Zealand and helped strengthen the future of the sector. Ian was a long-serving member of the ACE New Zealand Board and served as President from 2020 to 2022.

ACE New Zealand President Penny Kneebone said Ian’s leadership had helped shape the organisation and strengthen its role across the sector. 

“Ian led ACE through one of the most significant periods of change in its history. He brought ambition, courage and clear strategic direction, helping reposition ACE, strengthen its leadership and capability, membership and influence, expand its services, and deepen relationships with government, industry leaders and decision-makers. He also championed ACE’s growing international presence through FIDIC [the International Federation of Consulting Engineers], ensuring New Zealand’s voice was represented on the global stage. Throughout it all, Ian saw not only what ACE was, but what it could become, and worked tirelessly to help realise that potential.”

“Exceptional leaders leave more than achievements. They leave a legacy. Through his service, leadership and belief in the value of consulting and engineering, Ian has helped shape the organisation ACE is today and strengthened its ability to serve the profession into the future.”

For Ian, who is based in New Zealand, the recognition carries particular significance.

“New Zealand has been home for much of my career, so receiving this recognition from ACE New Zealand means a great deal to me. I’ve always believed in the role our profession can play in supporting our communities and contributing to the future of Aotearoa New Zealand. It was a privilege to serve ACE alongside people who care deeply about our profession, and I’m very proud of what we achieved together.”

About GHD

GHD is a leading professional services company operating in the global markets of water, energy and resources, environment, property and buildings, and transportation. Committed to a vision to make water, energy, and communities sustainable for generations to come, GHD delivers advisory, digital, engineering, architecture, environmental and construction solutions to public and private sector clients. Established in 1928 and privately owned by its people, GHD’s network of 12,000+ professionals is connected across 165 offices located on five continents.