With over 3,800 staff in the GCC, Aecom is working on projects such as Qatar’s New Port Project and Ashghal’s Expressways program in addition to the management of Al Rayyan and design of Al Wakrah FIFA 2022 World Cup stadia and precincts in Qatar. Both stadium deals have been picked up in the last 12 months which, alongside its recent $28mn contract win to manage Jeddah’s public transport project – featuring a new metro, rail, tram and water taxis – has led to Barwell jumping up in our rankings. He has led the firm’s Middle East business for five years, moving to Abu Dhabi in 2009 from his previous role heading Aecom’s Australia and New Zealand operations. He says the work his team has done to shape host cities like London 2012 and its recently completed Dubai Urban Master Plan, means it is keen to support Dubai’s Expo 2020 efforts.