Ben Goodwin has been appointed director of policy and public affairs at the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA).
In the newly created role, Goodwin reports directly to CECA’s board and is tasked with driving the organisation’s policy agenda and enhancing stakeholder relationships.
He started last month and has joined the trade body at “a crucial time for the UK’s infrastructure sector” according to CECA, which represents more than 300 members across the UK.
Goodwin is leading a team based at the CECA policy office in Westminster. His initial priorities include leading the trade body’s work on creating a supportive business environment for the UK’s civil engineering contractors.
He was previously director of policy and public affairs at the Institute of Sustainability and Environmental Professionals and prior to that had been lead policy manager at the Institution of Civil Engineers.
Commenting on his new role, Goodwin said: “Civil engineering contractors play a vital role in delivering the infrastructure that underpins the UK’s economy, society, and transition to net zero.”
He added: “I look forward to working with CECA members, our English regions and devolved nations, government at all levels and wider stakeholders to ensure the policy environment supports the industry’s ability to deliver sustainable economic growth, create jobs, and lead to better outcomes for businesses and communities in all parts of the country.”
Ross Markwell, chair of CECA’s Chairs’ Strategic Forum, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Ben to CECA. His extensive experience across infrastructure, sustainability, and government engagement will be invaluable as we continue to champion the interests of our members, and ensure the industry is equipped to meet future challenges.”
The new hire “reflects CECA’s commitment to strengthening our voice with policymakers and securing a stronger UK infrastructure sector, and the best possible business environment for the nation’s civil engineering contractors,” added Markwell.