Global environmental consultancy Arup has appointed a former HS2 director to head up and strengthen its high-speed rail projects, following a strong financial year and increased investment in the sector.
Giles Thomas, taking on the role of principal high-speed rail technical director for the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, will support clients and governments on delivering transport schemes, while operating from Sydney, Australia.
He brings nearly 40 years’ experience to the role, much of that spent on major project development, integration and delivery within the transport infrastructure sector, including for HS2 and the £6 billion Thameslink Programme.
Before joining Arup, Thomas spent more than 11 years at HS2 where he held several director level positions, providing technical, engineering and integration leadership and expertise.
He also served at Network Rail for more than seven years, latterly as head of systems integration, and was deputy director of safety and standards for the Department of Transport between 2005-2007.
Michael McGowan, Arup’s APAC transport leader, said: “High-speed rail and major transport programmes are fundamentally city-shaping investments.
“Giles brings deep global experience in integrating complex systems, aligning stakeholders and making best-for-programme decisions at scale.
“His appointment significantly strengthens our ability to support clients as Australia progresses its high-speed rail ambitions.”
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Headquartered in London, Arup has been involved in several transport infrastructure projects, including Canada’s high-speed rail network, Alto and it was responsible for planning, architecture and developing the best route for HS1 stations.
For the year ended 31 March 2025, the company’s global revenue rose to £2.16 billion, underpinned by an operating profit of £58.5 million, a 2.7 per cent increase on FY2024.
Commenting on his new role at Arup, Thomas said: “I’m looking forward to working with Arup’s teams and clients to help shape high-speed rail and major transport programmes that deliver lasting benefits for cities, regions and future generations.”
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