We’re strengthening our infrastructure capabilities to support clients on cost, viability and delivery of major projects.

As developers, local authorities and investors prepare to make the most of the measures outlined in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, we have appointed industry experts Andy Stamps and Michelle Hayhurst to lead our expansion into the rapidly growing infrastructure sector. 

With the UK’s increasing investment in transport, utilities, and energy, this sector expansion is a natural next step for us, building on our reputation for ingenuity across disciplines and our commitment to deliver lasting impact on the strength of our people.    

Andy and Michelle, both formerly at Rider Levett Bucknall, bring complementary expertise. Andy’s background in cost, QS, commercial, and assurance – and Michelle’s expertise in procurement and strategic advisory – mean that the duo will bring a unique, integrated approach to delivering infrastructure solutions; developing costings; and working through the viability of projects, across transport, energy and data centres, among others.   

Together they will enhance our ability to work with our clients to deliver tailored infrastructure solutions across the UK, while also further diversifying our growth services, supporting our growth journey, and reinforcing our position in a high-demand market. 

Andy Stamps has an impressive track record of over 30 years in the construction industry, having successfully led commercial and cost management initiatives across transportation, energy, and utilities. In Andy’s previous roles, he established and grew a national infrastructure team and helped to deliver projects including National Highways Smart Motorways Alliance and Cardiff Crossrail for Transport for Wales and Cardiff City Council. At Ridge he will draw on his expertise and industry network to support clients in their drive towards the delivery of more efficient project outcomes.   

Commenting on his appointment, Andy said: “Ridge has a bold vision for infrastructure, and the multidisciplinary approach and breadth of service offer really sets it apart. My ambition is to help Ridge grow its strategic infrastructure offering and establish it as a go-to for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects, by ensuring we bring real value to clients across the whole project lifespan.  

 

“This means working from inception through completion and across commercial, project management and controls, equipping clients with tailored solutions as they look to navigate the opportunities made real in the Planning and Infrastructure Bill, decide which projects are most likely to succeed, and deliver programmes of work that respond to growth needs.” 

Michelle Hayhurst has over 20 years of infrastructure experience in procurement and commercial advisory. Her achievements include delivering key commissions on East West Railway on behalf of Network Rail & East West Railway Company, National Audit Office and Midland Metro Alliance. In her new role, she will lead strategic procurement and commercial advisory services, helping position Ridge as a trusted partner in infrastructure delivery.  

Commenting on her appointment, Michelle said: “Ridge presented an opportunity that aligned perfectly with my ambitions—an organisation with vision and ambition, a strong purpose, and a culture that fosters growth, and an opportunity to shape something that is currently in its infancy but with scope to grow rapidly. There is so much to do – homes, schools and hospitals to build, sustainable energy to unlock and fast-track. The Planning & Infrastructure Bill will empower these to be delivered faster, but will also create a need for improved connectivity. At Ridge we recognise that the Bill is both an opportunity and a challenge – my goal is to ensure that Ridge can contribute to all of these agendas in a sustainable way, both for our clients and for the future of the industry.” 

Chris Haworth, Partner at Ridge, said: “Andy and Michelle’s extensive experience and collaborative approach align perfectly with Ridge’s growth vision, complementing and enhancing our existing infrastructure offer. Their leadership will create new opportunities for our people to serve clients with ingenuity and provide them with practical, outcome-focused solutions in the sectors most in-need.”