AUSTRALIA / AGILITYPR.NEWS / June 02, 2020 / International engineering and infrastructure advisory company Aurecon has appointed Nathan Roberts as its Newcastle Leader to lead its Newcastle team in delivering innovative infrastructure design concepts and engineering advice for the key city-shaping and urban renewal projects that are helping to define Greater Newcastle and its future.

Roberts, a Newcastle local and graduate of Newcastle University, brings strong local connections and deep experience working on major infrastructure projects both in Newcastle and overseas. He is looking forward to growing Aurecon’s capability in Newcastle and building on the organisation’s reputation for creating innovative engineering and digital solutions.

“Aurecon has a long history in the Hunter Region, having been here for more than 60 years. In that time, we have delivered many place-making projects, most recently NUspace for Newcastle University, the Newcastle Interchange and Newcastle Light Rail. I’m committed to continuing that legacy by working with our clients to create iconic projects – resourced by local people as much as possible” says Roberts

Rowenna Walker, Aurecon’s Managing Director – New South Wales says “Nathan’s combination of local insights and global experience will be invaluable in leading the team to help clients tackle some of the challenges facing the region, such as population growth and transitioning to a more diversified economy.   He simply has the expertise to take Aurecon’s Newcastle business to the next level.”

With a background in bridge design and civil and structural engineering, Roberts has worked extensively on major transport projects in Australia, including Airport Link in Brisbane and the refurbishment of the iconic ANZAC Bridge in Sydney. He has also spent time in the United Kingdom as a design manager focussed on the construction phase for major infrastructure projects.

But with its enviable lifestyle and stunning beaches, the intention was always to return to Newcastle, and six years ago Roberts joined Aurecon to form and lead a new structures team in the Hunter Region. The bridge team has grown significantly over this time, applying their capability to award winning projects such as the Wyong Road Upgrade and Newcastle Light Rail. He is currently leading the team for the design of seven bridges for the Newcastle Inner City Bypass.

As Newcastle Leader, Roberts will remain heavily involved in project delivery, focussed on delivering excellent client experiences across all sectors. He is looking forward to working directly with a broader range of clients in his new role, bringing a fresh pair of eyes to projects in the defence, water, mining and energy markets.

“To date my role has been strongly transport-focussed, so I’m really looking forward to getting out and working with more of our clients in Hunter Water, University of Newcastle, Port of Newcastle, the Department of Defence and others. Of course, I will continue to bring to bear my structures and transport experience to support Transport for New South Wales.”

Roberts is confident about the opportunity for further growth and investment in the Newcastle office. Despite COVID-19’s impact on the economy, Newcastle’s infrastructure pipeline remains strong and Aurecon is well-placed to support clients in delivering these projects, he says.

“I have a strong commitment to making a positive difference in the Hunter Valley and Greater New South Wales by delivering region-defining projects. The biggest buzz I get is working with clients to deliver challenging projects and seeing them come to life.”

Roberts replaces Jane Moran as the Newcastle Leader. Jane has returned to Sydney to take up the role of Client Leader, Transport at Aurecon.