Oliver Plunkett

Regional Director for Saudi Arabia

Following graduation from Bristol University in 1995, Oliver developed his skills as an interdisciplinary engineer on three of the major UK civil engineering projects of the period; the Jubilee Line Extension, the Heathrow Express and the Newbury Bypass. Working in the creative project environments that challenged the traditional forms of construction Oliver obtained a thorough grounding in the skills necessary in deriving elegant and efficient engineering solutions that has guided his later work.

Since then Oliver has worked exclusively in multidisciplinary teams delivering a range of award winning UK education and healthcare projects that have inspired and directed the development of these sectors through the early years of the 21st century. In addition Oliver has indulged his passion for the design of complex cultural and civic schemes which have involved new build and refurbished or restored projects both in the UK and overseas.

In 2009, Oliver was appointed Country Director for Saudi Arabia. From his Riyadh base he leads the work of the practice in the Kingdom. In this role he identifies and develops new opportunities that build on the 35 plus years of Buro Happold experience in the Kingdom which respond creatively and sustainably to the rapid developmental challenges that exist. He has been instrumental in re-establishing a design capability in Riyadh combined with an extensive supervision team of experienced professionals that together provide a formidable pool of resident engineering skill and expertise working on some of the most challenging projects in the Kingdom. Oliver’s skills in delivering projects within challenging commercial conditions is also key to the ongoing work of the practice.

Those who work alongside Oliver appreciate his passionate and personable communication and motivational style together with his rigorous pursuit of clarity and the development of engineering led consultancy.