Connected Places Catapult strengthens Board with three new Non-Exec Directors

21.01.25 LONDON, Connected Places Catapult, the UK’s innovation accelerator for cities, transport, and place leadership, has today announced the appointment of three new Non-Executive Directors to its Board of Directors.

• Carolyn Dwyer is an experienced Non-Executive Director and holds a series of positions providing counsel to organisations including the Office of Rail and Road, the National Preparedness Commission, and London and Partners. Carolyn was formerly Strategic Director - Development Growth and Regeneration at the London Borough of Sutton where she secured smart, sustainable connected development and infrastructure to support inclusive growth.

• Stuart Patrick CBE is Chief Executive Officer at Glasgow Chamber of Commerce and holds Board memberships at British Chambers of Commerce and the Scotland Office, among others. Stuart has spent over 20 years championing the growth and development of Glasgow and its business community. Alongside this background in urban economic development, he has professional financial training and is a chartered accountant.

• Becky Wood is a Partner at EY, a chartered accountant, and has a track record of leadership on some of the world’s largest infrastructure projects. Over a decade at the Department for Transport saw Becky oversee major infrastructure developments, including roles as the Government’s Senior Responsible Officer (SRO) for the Crossrail, Thameslink & Intercity Express programmes. She also spent several years working on major infrastructure programmes in Australia across both the public and private sectors.

The Board wishes to extend its thanks to two Non-Executive Directors, Nick Chism and Liz Peace CBE, who are stepping down from the Connected Places Catapult Board following four years’ service where they have made an invaluable contribution, providing expert knowledge and stewardship.

Each of the new Non-Executive Directors will chair sessions at the upcoming Connected Places Summit in March. Becky’s session is set to focus on the business case for transport investment. Stuart will lead a discussion spotlighting Glasgow as a regional economic powerhouse. And Carolyn’s panel will ask where now for transport-oriented development?

“The economic and environmental potential of our towns and cities, and the infrastructures and platforms that connect them, are rightfully in the national spotlight. At this time of renewal and reinvestment, I am very delighted to welcome Carolyn Dwyer, Stuart Patrick CBE and Becky Wood to the Board at Connected Places Catapult.”

“I’d also like to extend my personal thanks to Nick Chism and Liz Peace CBE, who have both provided invaluable counsel during their time on our Board.”

Prof Greg Clark CBE, Chair of the Board at Connected Places Catapult

“I am so pleased to see these three exceptional leaders join the Board at Connected Places Catapult.

“With the Government laser focussed on kickstarting economic growth, we know there is a huge prize for the communities, towns and cities that are able to realise the opportunities of innovation. I look forward to working with Carolyn, Stuart and Becky as we help bridge the gap between discovery and the market for places across the UK.”

Erika Lewis, Chief Executive Officer at Connected Places Catapult

"I’m absolutely thrilled to join Connected Places Catapult, an organisation of exceptional calibre that is dedicated to supporting the creation of truly connected places. My passion lies in building environments where people can live, work, and thrive, and the Catapult helps make this a reality by fostering economic development and driving innovation that creates sustainable solutions fit for the future.”

Carolyn Dwyer, newly-appointed Non-Executive Director at Connected Places Catapult

"This is a pivotal time to be joining an organisation that encourages significant investment in our cities and transport infrastructure. The Catapult plays an important role in urban transformation and is key to ensuring that all parts of the UK share in the benefits of growth and innovation. It’s an extraordinary organisation, sitting right at the heart of discussions that shape the success of our country."

Stuart Patrick, newly-appointed Non-Executive Director at Connected Places Catapult

"Connected Places Catapult is a remarkable platform for bringing together people, places, and infrastructure through cutting-edge innovation. Much of my work has focused on how infrastructure impacts communities, and I’m inspired by the Catapult’s ability to solve complex challenges, connect diverse stakeholders, and enhance the experiences of those who live and work in the spaces we create. This is about making a tangible difference by building sustainable solutions for the future."

Becky Wood, newly-appointed Non-Executive Director at Connected Places Catapult