Infrastructure Insights

Neil Morrison, Group HR Director at Severn Trent, brings decades of HR experience – from the world of publishing and the iconic Penguin merger to leading people strategy in the water sector. He joins Simon Arthur to talk about how big investment programmes like AMP8 can create real opportunities for local communities. Whether that’s through apprenticeships, helping young people find their path, or making sure the company delivers real social value close to home. Simon and Neil also cover what it takes to attract and keep talent in an industry that’s changing fast. Neil shares his thoughts on leadership, why fairness matters more than ever, and the best piece of career advice he’s ever been given.

Simon is joined by Liz Baldwin, Southern Integrated Delivery Director for the Southern Renewals Enterprise (SRE).Liz shares how SRE is applying Project 13 principles to one of the UK’s largest and most ambitious rail programmes. From building a culture of purposeful collaboration to shaping a commercial model that ties efficiency to reinvestment, Liz offers a candid view on the scale of change required - and the opportunities it creates.They explore the challenges of aligning five partner organisations, the importance of cultural and behavioural integration, and how the programme is delivering long-term value for the railway and the communities it serves.

In this episode of Infrastructure Insights, Simon Arthur chats with Mike Rose about something we often take for granted – water. From the data we use to make decisions to the big questions about how we’ll meet future demand, Mike shares his take on where the UK’s headed when it comes to managing one of our most important resources. They cover everything from the need for good data, to how water management should be approached, especially with climate change and rapid development on the horizon. There’s talk of AI, smarter planning, and why now – at the start of AMP8 – is the perfect time to be having these conversations.  

In this episode of Infrastructure Insights, Simon Arthur sits down with Olivia Powis, CEO of the Carbon Capture & Storage Association, to discuss the future of CCUS and its critical role in decarbonisation. Olivia shares insights on scaling the industry, the importance of policy frameworks, and how government commitments and private investment are driving momentum. 

In this episode of Infrastructure Insights, we sit down with Paul Harrison (Defence Market Leader for UK & Europe at Mott MacDonald) to discuss his journey from musician and Royal Air Force officer to a leader in the infrastructure sector. Paul shares his insights on how global politics is shifting defence infrastructure spending, the importance of collaboration in delivering projects more efficiently, and what the future holds for defence and critical infrastructure. He also reflects on his own career transition, the challenges of leaving the military, and the lessons he learned about networking and adapting to new environments.Beyond his professional life, Paul talks about his love for mountain biking, golf, and fishing—activities that help him disconnect from the pressures of work. This conversation is filled with insights, personal stories, and a forward-looking perspective on the industry.

Simon Arthur joins Natasha Rouse (Sector Head of Social Infrastructure, Equitix) to discuss Natasha's career journey, trends in the industry, and important considerations for achieving sustainable, long-term infrastructure investment.

It's here! Welcome to the first episode Infrastructure Insights, hosted by Simon Arthur. Joined by Kate Jennings, Chief Executive Officer of ACE, Simon and Kate discuss industry trends, the impact of a new government and key advice for aspiring senior leaders.