A chartered civil engineer and fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers, Alison is currently project director on Battersea Power Station Phase 3A. Through her 25 years’ experience in the industry, the company said she has “established a reputation as an exceptional professional, a leader and a driver of technical excellence”.

Alison’s ascension journey to the executive board started as a student sponsored by Sir Robert McAlpine completing her first summer placement on site at Holborn Bars in 1989. Since then she has worked her way up through the engineering roles within the business, on projects including wind farms, Croydon Tramlink, the Jubilee Line Extension, various new build and refurbishment office and mixed use schemes, and Bloomberg. 

“She brings with her a clear understanding of the business, our recent history, a strong project-focus and established relationships with people in all regions and roles across the company,” McAlpine added.

Alison succeeds to Boyd McFee on the executive board, who will retire from his role as executive director in August 2020 after 40 years of service.

The company said: “Boyd has been involved in countless projects, challenges and chapters of our story. His commitment to technical excellence mixed with his uniquely likable personal touch have made him part of Sir Robert McAlpine’s DNA forever.”

Alison Cox said: “This is a fantastic opportunity to take everything I have learnt through working in the business over the last 25 years, and use that to help shape our future success. It’s great that I will be working alongside Boyd to have a proper transition into the role, and I plan to use that continuity to build on the strong foundations that he has created.”

Boyd McFee added: “I am absolutely delighted that Alison is going to be my successor. Alison exudes all that is great about being part of the Sir Robert McAlpine family and organisation. I am sure that she will drive our pursuit of engineering excellence in all that we do and I look forward to working with her in coming months to ensure a smooth transition.”

Yesterday Sir Robert McAlpine said it has overcome “what remains a volatile market” to report a return to profit following heavy losses in 2017.