Hoare will now lead Atkins’ 10,000-strong team following his promotion from head of the UK and Europe transportation division.

Hoare is a chartered civil engineer by profession and is putting productivity improvements and digital advances at the top of his list of priorities.

He said: “I’m looking forward to working with clients, colleagues and partners to deliver best-in-class engineering and infrastructure projects to unlock greater productivity and improve the lives and prosperity of our communities and businesses.

“At such an important time for the UK in particular, it is critical that we are at the heart of the drive to improve efficiency and productivity both to support the growth in the UK economy and to boost exports.

“One of my priorities will be to push the digital growth agenda, ensuring we bring smart thinking and technological solutions to the table at this time when our digital and physical worlds are colliding at pace.”

His appointment follows the recent announcement of Nick Roberts’ promotion to Atkins President.

In the interim, divisional Finance Director, Jamie Sharp, will lead the UK and Europe transportation business.