Riona Ainge has been appointed as SYSTRA’s first Sustainability Lead to help drive forward it’s work on supporting the environment and enhancing social value.

The new role has been created to support SYSTRA to deliver the four key pillars within its sustainability mission; social purpose, climate action, responsible business and environmental stewardship; and Riona starts in position today, 9 September 2024.

Riona joined the company four years ago, starting as a Consultant in the Planning and Consents Team on the Main Works Civils Contract for HS2. She was then seconded to the role of Sustainability Manager for the Balfour Beatty Vinci SYSTRA JV, working on the delivery of Old Oak Common Station (OOC). 

She is part of the Next Generation Leadership Team (NGLT), sitting alongside other early career professionals to bring new perspectives and challenge to the business, and was a finalist for the Women in Construction and Engineering (WICE) Awards in 2024 and the prestigious Young Railway Professional of the Year 2023. 

Riona holds a first-class degree in Geology and Physical Geography from the University of Birmingham, and a Masters in Environmental Management from the University of Nottingham.

David White, Director of Health, Safety, Security & Sustainability at SYSTRA, said: “Riona’s appointment marks a step-change in the future of our sustainability mission at SYSTRA. She brings a wealth of expertise and enthusiasm to this important role, and it is clear she is determined to drive genuine change and momentum across the business. I am very much looking forward to working with her on taking our sustainability mission forward.”

Riona Ainge added: “I am delighted to take on this important role for SYSTRA, which aligns with my core values towards enhancing the environment and generating social value in our projects. My first priorities will be establishing our carbon management programme and creating distinct opportunities to deliver meaningful and lasting social value in the communities we serve.”