The National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA) has appointed five new members to its Expert Advisory Council (EAC). The new team will support NISTA’s work implementing the Government’s transformation programme for the UK’s economic and social infrastructure and housing.
The five experts will join Julia Prescot CBE, who was appointed as the Chair of the Council in February 2026.
The Council’s role is to provide independent expert advice to support NISTA’s work across infrastructure strategic planning, project delivery, private finance and public service transformation. The extensive experience the new members bring from industry, government, and academia will help strengthen the quality, robustness and impact of NISTA’s advice and products, said the Government.
The newly appointed members are:
Professor Jim Hall, Professor of Climate and Environmental Risks at the University of Oxford and an expert in infrastructure systems, climate resilience and spatial planning.
Fiona Driscoll, an experienced board Chair and independent director with expertise in governance, assurance, strategy, public service reform and digital transformation.
Simon Wright, a major infrastructure delivery expert whose experience includes Crossrail, HS2 and the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
James Wardlaw, an infrastructure finance specialist with more than 25 years’ experience across government, investment management and global advisory roles.
Philippa Powell, a clean energy and infrastructure specialist with extensive experience in offshore wind, energy transition and project delivery.
The Expert Advisory Council was established with the aim of embedding external expertise into infrastructure decision-making and strengthen links between government, industry and investors. It has an advisory role and does not take decisions or sit within NISTA’s formal governance or assurance structures. Responsibility for decisions and delivery remains with ministers, departments and NISTA leadership.
The new Council members will be tasked with providing independent challenge and insight on areas including the delivery of projects across economic and social infrastructure, project finance, service transformation, and will also support NISTA’s work on the implementation of the 10 Year Infrastructure Strategy and wider project delivery reforms.
The five members were appointed following an open recruitment process. The appointments began on 1 July 2026 and will last for a period of five years.
Chief Secretary to the Treasury Emma Reynolds said: “The new members of NISTA’s Expert Advisory Council bring an exceptional breadth of experience — from delivering major infrastructure and public service reform to shaping long-term strategy and driving innovation. Their expertise, challenge and practical insight will help turn ambition into delivery, ensuring that investment improves people’s lives, strengthens our public services and delivers lasting value for taxpayers.”
