New Director Kate Drews to spearhead SMEC’s Urban business growth in Australia

Kate Drews has been promoted to lead SMEC’s Urban Communities business in Australia, following the retirement of Michael Jones.

Since joining SMEC in 2018 as the National Manager, Urban Renewal, Kate has led the growth and diversification of SMEC’s Australian Urban Renewal business. Kate has more than 25 years of industry experience and has held several senior leadership roles. She was recently appointed a Director on the Board of Consult Australia.

“Kate has been integral to the growth of our Urban Renewal service offering,” said James Phillis, SMEC’s Chief Executive Officer, Australia & New Zealand. “Her wealth of experience and leadership has driven success for our clients and projects in the urban development sector. I look forward to working more closely with Kate and welcome her to our Executive Committee.

“My congratulations also to Michael for his impressive track record in the industry, and his outstanding contributions to our business over many years, building SMEC’s Urban Communities team into one of Australia’s leading consulting specialists.”

Kate says she is excited to lead a diverse, talented team of over 250 specialists across the country. “We have an exceptional team of planners, urban designers, landscape architects, engineers, surveyors and technical specialists, who have helped to design and deliver some of the largest and most high-profile urban developments across Australia,” she said.

“I am pleased to continue this legacy and look forward to what we will achieve as we collaborate with our partners and clients to shape more sustainable and liveable communities.

“It’s been fantastic working with Michael over the past two years and I appreciate his support and guidance.”

Kate’s appointment to Market Director, Urban Communities takes immediate effect.