Masterclass Introduction: Programme, or major project, delivery is notoriously challenging. McKinsey has estimated that 98% of mega projects experience cost overruns of more than 30% and 77% are at least 40% late, and most programmes (large and small) experience similar difficulties. Yet, the complexity that contributes to those challenges is only getting more considerable, requiring convergence of excellence in many domains ranging from systems thinking, to leadership, ethical governance, and data science, to name a few.

Crossrail was Europe's biggest infrastructure programme. In this session Mark Wild, OBE will focus on the root causes of the programme’s considerable challenges, with a particular focus on the leadership characteristics and interventions that really made the difference in the ultimately successful delivery of the programme.

Mark Wild, OBE, has more than 35 years of experience leading complex and critical infrastructure. An Engineer with Hons Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Masters in Business Administration, Mark started his career in the electricity sector, but the majority of his experience has been in transportation. He has had a long career in operating and building major transportation infrastructure. Mark is the former Managing Director of Westinghouse Signals and was the CEO of Public Transport Victoria. Mark is the former Managing Director of London Underground and the former CEO of Crossrail, Europe’s largest infrastructure programme. Mark took up the role of CEO for SGN, one of the UK’s largest gas distribution networks in August last year.

Location: The University of Edinburgh, 50 George Square, EH8 9JU, Screening Room G.04

CFI Masterclass - Mark Wild, OBE