Tom Heath, Arup’s former global director of data science and AI, has joined consultancy Ward Williams on an interim basis as the firm’s first chief data and AI officer.
At Arup, Heath led the firm-wide development and adoption of AI, delivering improvements in efficiency, quality and innovation.
Heath said: “Ward Williams is a dynamic and forward-looking company, with bold vision, strong client relationships and a commitment to the communities it serves. AI provides major opportunities across architecture, engineering and construction as a whole, and for UK professional services firms, which are such a critical element of the national economy. I believe Ward Williams can take a leading role in realising these opportunities, for the benefit of projects, clients and our wider stakeholders, and I’m excited to lead the partnership on that journey.”
James Beckly senior partner at Ward Williams, added: “Tom and I first met in October 2023 – when I became senior partner and Tom was guest speaker at our ‘metamorphosis’ team event. We were all inspired by Tom as we embraced the opportunities of data, tech and AI. We are delighted to welcome Tom to our partnership to help us leverage technologies that add value for our teams, delivery and clients. Ward Williams is a dynamic and innovative partnership. Tom’s announcement is the first of several team developments that will enable us to achieve our vision. We look forward to sharing more on these developments in the coming months.”
