He replaces the departing Sir James Wates, who was instrumental in establishing IE:UK with Government two years ago.

The Department for International Trade is partnering with 18 of the UK’s leading infrastructure firms to help UK firms secure major international contracts.

Holmes has worked at Mace for the past 28 years, joining the board in 1996.

During his time at Mace, he has been responsible for the delivery of a number of major programmes, including British Airway’s £200m headquarters at Waterside.

He has also led Mace’s expansion into a number of new markets and regions over the last three decades, including the company’s work in the UK public sector and establishing its fast-growing North American business.

The board is co-chaired by a member of the private sector on a two-year basis, with Holmes working alongside the Department for International Trade’s Minister for Exports, Graham Stuart.

Stuart said: “Major infrastructure projects continue to progress, despite coronavirus, and it is in those contracts that the support of government can make all the difference.

“We are determined to harness the whole of government behind UK expertise and, as we open up global markets through free trade agreements, allow UK businesses to share their innovation, talent and expertise to the benefit of people both at home and abroad.”

Mark Holmes, Deputy Chairman at Mace Group: “This is an exciting time for the export of British expertise overseas. We have an exceptional national reputation for overcoming complex engineering and construction challenges, and so we’re perfectly placed to help countries across the world deliver the infrastructure programmes that will drive their economic recovery from the pandemic. ”