CSIC Distinguished Lecture 2026

This year's speaker is Matt Palmer, Chief Executive Officer of Lower Thames Crossing. 16:30 - 17:30 Refreshments and poster session 17:30 - 18:45 Lecture This lecture will explore the low-carbon transition. Further details to follow. Matt has over 30 years’ experience leading roles in design, project and programme management and business change. Having worked for client, consulting and delivery organisations, Matt has a successful track record as a senior executive and leader across a range of major organisations and investment programmes both in the UK and internationally. Matt joined National Highways in July 2020 as the Executive Director for the Lower Thames Crossing, the most ambitious investment road undertaken in the country since M25. Recently given government consent, Lower Thames Crossing is the first major infrastructure project to not face legal challenges in the last 15 years. This is because of a relentless focus on the local community and broader sustainability, whilst at the same time delivering the economic benefits of the project. Lower Thames Crossing will be delivered carbon neutral and will be the “Greenest Road”. Previously, Matt was Development Director at Heathrow, leading the development of the scheme for the third runway and he was also involved in the construction of Terminal 2 and Terminal 5.