60 seconds with James Reeves, ITP's new Technical Director

We're delighted to welcome James Reeves to the ITP team. With over 30 years in the transport industry, find out more about his role and the experience he brings with him in this quick Q&A...

What has been your experience of working in the transport industry?

I’ve been working as a transport economist and planner for more than 30 years. In addition to working extensively in the UK, I’ve worked in more than 50 countries worldwide. Throughout my career, I’ve worked on some really innovative projects, whether it was looking at new modes of public transport in London, or helping to develop the first public transport investment programme for Dubai, or developing a strategic transport plan for the country with the smallest population in the world. In recent years, i've been involved in climate change mitigation and adaptation projects helping developing countries to identify climate hazards and delivering investments to remove these risks.

Tell us a bit about your role at ITP

I have a twin role at ITP. Firstly, I will be supporting the existing international projects team, providing transport economics and planning inputs. I’m looking at a range of projects in Africa, Eastern Europe, and Central Asia. Eventually, I hope to build our portfolio in small island states as well. Secondly, I will be building a transport economics team to work across the business. This will expand on the work we already do in transport appraisal and business case development for clients in the UK and overseas. I’m based in the London office, so the intention is to gradually build up the team there, as well as bringing together people from other offices.

What do you enjoy most about working in the transport planning sector?

I’ve visited a lot of interesting places. I love meeting the people and enjoying the food. I particularly like small island countries, because you always feel that you can really help them, particularly if the project is related to resilience or climate change.

I’ve worked on many interesting projects and like the challenge of identifying the key aspects of each one and working out how to include them in the appraisal.

What are you looking forward to working on at ITP?

I enjoy building teams and helping younger people learn and develop and I'm looking forward to doing this at ITP. This is something that ITP is very supportive of, and I’m looking forward to working with them to achieve this. I’ve done a lot of interesting public transport work over the years and I’m looking forward to getting involved in some of the great things that ITP is doing.

Outside of the office, how do you like to spend your time?

I’m renovating an old house, when I have the time and energy. I’m also an active member of my local Lions Club. We raise money for local charities and run community events which is very rewarding and a lot of fun. An occasional exotic holiday, it was Cuba last year, helps me unwind.

How can we get in touch with you?

I’d be very happy to talk to anybody, whether you are interested in a career move, or want to know how we might be able to help you with your particular issue. Feel free to email me at reeves@itpworld.net

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