Aurecon has appointed Alton Chow as its new managing director of Greater China, effective 3 January 2021. Based in Hong Kong, he will report directly to Stephane Asselin, chief executive for Asia.

This significant move is part of Aurecon’s strategy to further strengthen its position in the infrastructure and engineering sector in Greater China. Recent years have seen the company bolster its leadership team and grow its presence steadily in the region. The team has been working on major projects such as the recent MTR Hung Shui Kiu Station, Tuen Ma Line extension, the Hong Kong West Kowloon Terminus, The Mills Hong Kong and Tseung Kwan O – Lam Tin Tunnel, Hong Kong.

Approximately HK$100 billion (US$12.8 billion) is expected to be invested annually in Hong Kong’s infrastructure over the next decade, in addition to the HK$120 billion stimulus package announced earlier this year. Infrastructure development is also a key highlight in the chief executive’s Policy Address 2021 where there is a keen focus on smart cities, developing a new Northern Metropolis, establishing transport infrastructure-led developments and building an eco-environment, among other initiatives.

With this new appointment, Mr Chow will take the lead to grow Aurecon’s business in Greater China and work with the team to deliver innovative and sustainable solutions to clients.

“Alton has a proven track record in building successful practices that penetrate markets and disrupt the industry. He has led both public and private companies, working in a variety of international markets and within both architectural and engineering practices,” explained Mr Asselin.

“Aurecon’s success hinges on working closely with our clients, drawing and expanding on their ideas and inspiration to deliver clever, innovative solutions. Alton’s leadership and client engagement approach align perfectly with our values as an organisation. He also has the experience, mentality and personality to build a high-performance team where talent can thrive.”

With over 24 years of architecture and engineering experience, Mr Chow has a proven international track record in delivering robust business outcomes and developing a strong talent base focused on client experience and quality delivery. In this new role, he will be responsible to grow Aurecon’s business in the Greater China region by developing a high-performing team and will work closely and collaboratively with the wider Aurecon network.

“It is refreshing to see an innovative company like Aurecon pivot towards growth and expanding its operations with a purposeful and deliberate intent. I also appreciate that Aurecon is committed to quality and has grown a culture that focuses on talent. This is crucial to any consulting business especially in the design, engineering and advisory sector,” said Mr Chow.

“Along with that, I see immense potential in the region, and I am confident that together as a team, we can and will collectively advance our growth and maximise this region’s market opportunities.”

Prior to this appointment, Mr Chow was with AECOM for over seven years. He served as vice president and global head of commercial development as well as Asia head of architecture. In these roles, he expanded the company’s market share in the United States, Middle East and Asia through strategic alignments with key global clients.

In addition, Mr Chow developed a network of global talent throughout AECOM to deliver large and complex multidisciplinary projects. Earlier in his career with the company, Mr Chow was the managing director for mainland China where he was responsible for the business’ restructure; he drove record growth during his tenure.

Throughout his illustrious career, Mr Chow has held multiple executive management roles with various international practices including Woods Bagot, Gensler, and Wilson Associates. Time and again, he has turned businesses around by streamlining operations, nurturing talent and leading teams to deliver quality work. He established stable and profitable enterprises as well as increased brand awareness both locally and internationally.

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