GHD announces new Chairman and executive directors

One of the world’s leading engineering, architecture, environmental and construction services companies, GHD, has announced changes to its Board, with new appointments reflecting the company’s global footprint.

Rob Knott has been named Executive Chairman of the GHD Group, taking over from Russell Board, who is retiring after a 40 year career with the company, having served as Chairman since 2011.

The company also welcomed three new executive directors to the Board:

• Denise Anderson – Regional Principal responsible for US mid-Continent, based in Houston, Texas
• Iver Skavdal – Regional Principal responsible for US West, including Saipan and Guam, based in Santa Rosa, California
• Sheryl Cornelius – Regional People Manager for Asia Pacific, based in Auckland, New Zealand

Rob comments, “The new members will enhance the Board’s diversity of thought, background and experience, complementing the wide-ranging knowledge and commercial acumen of our existing directors. They bring a variety of perspectives and a breadth of thinking that will inform our long-term global outlook.”

In an industry marked by increasing consolidation, GHD stands out as one of the top global fully employee-owned companies.

“Our clients tell us that they value our distinct culture and sense of purpose,” Rob says. “More than one in every four of our people are the owners of GHD and, as the custodians of the company, they have a personal stake in delivering outstanding client service. Employee ownership is an enduring model, which is fundamental to our culture and values. It allows us to set long term strategies, and attract and retain committed and high-performing people.”

Rob has been a director since 2009 and was, most recently, General Manager – Asia Pacific and Services. In these roles, he has helped the company achieve sustained growth in challenging market conditions. As past chair of GHD's Acquisition and Integration Advisory Group, he has provided support to more than 20 successful mergers that have helped grow the business to AUD 1.7 billion revenue in 2016. An electrical engineer, Rob’s professional background is in integrated design and project management of major infrastructure programs.