Howells is the Chairman of Mott MacDonald.

Dr Nelson Ogunshakin OBE, Chief Executive of ACE, said: “We are delighted and very privileged to have Keith Howells as our Chairman for 2013.

“He is a major figure within the industry and his success at Mott MacDonald has been remarkable and long lasting.

“The entire ACE Board and I look forward to Keith’s leadership as we celebrate the Centenary anniversary of the ACE in 2013.”

Howells said: “It’s both an honour and a privilege to chair ACE during its centenary year and I look forward to playing my part in helping ACE raise awareness of our industry’s crucial contribution to the UK economy as we celebrate this important milestone.

“I will also be supporting ACE in its on-going dialogue with government on the vital role of infrastructure investment to stimulate economic growth. And I intend to do all I can to assist the ACE in promoting our members’ interests to key clients.”