Scott Wilson's Geoff French is chosen as new ACE chairman

Scott Wilson chairman Geoff French is the new chairman of the Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE), following his election by ACE’s board of directors.

French is the 93rd chairman of ACE and will hold the position for one year. He said: “I am looking forward to building on the significant achievements over several years at ACE, which has seen the organisation establish itself as an association of choice for most of the leading players in our sector, and to facing up to the challenges that 2009 will bring. Notwithstanding the difficult economic situation, which will have an effect on all consultancy and engineering firms, I am confident that ACE is in good shape to face up to these challenges over the coming 12 months.”

French said that he was particularly looking forward to ACE’s hosting, in London in September 2009, of the annual conference of the International Federation of Consulting Engineers (FIDIC), which is set to be the largest international gathering of engineers in 2009. “FIDIC 2009 in London will provide the best possible international showcase for British consultancy and engineering and we need to grasp it with both hands,” said French.

Looking ahead to his year as chairman of ACE, French said: “Taking over the helm of ACE is a considerable honour and I hope to be able to play my part in leading ACE to further success over the coming year.” ACE’s chief executive Nelson Ogunshakin commented: “Scott Wilson has been a strong supporter of ACE for many years and I’m particularly pleased to be working with Geoff as chairman over the next 12 months.”

ACE has also appointed two vice chairmen for 2009. Michelle McDowell, chair of civil and structural engineering at BDP and Grontmij UK and Ireland managing director, Lawrence Hughes.