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News
SJ
Group
strengthens
global
infrastructure
and
Energy
leadership
amid
AI
and
energy
transition
November 18, 2025
November 18 2025 – Built environment consultancy SJ Group, of which SMEC is a member company, has announced new leadership appointments to its Infrastructure + Energy business line, marking a strategic step forward as the industry adapts to rapid advances in technology, sustainability, and the global energy transition.

James Phillis has been promoted to Chief Executive (CE), succeeding Hari Poologasundram, who now serves as Senior Advisor. Murray Kretschmer joins as Chief Operating Officer (COO), bringing over 25 years of experience from Arup, where he was COO for the Australasia region.

 

“Engineering and design have always shaped the world around us, but today, they must rise to even greater challenges,” said Sean Chiao, Group CEO of SJ Group. “As infrastructure evolves globally, driven by decarbonisation, digitalisation, and the energy transition, our clients are looking to us for bold thinking and quality delivery. James and Murray bring the global experience and perspective to lead our Infrastructure + Energy business into its next chapter, creating enduring value for our clients, communities, and the planet.”

 

James Phillis and Murray Kretschmer will oversee operations across more than 40 countries, where SJ Group delivers solutions in transport, energy, water, and environmental infrastructure.

 

 

 

Media Release
Download here

 

This is an extraordinary time for our industry, rich with opportunity and rapid change...
— James Phillis

 

“This is an extraordinary time for our industry, rich with opportunity and rapid change” says James. “The integration of AI is no longer on the horizon, it’s here – transforming how infrastructure and energy systems are conceived, delivered, and experienced across every part of modern life. From predictive modelling and design automation to data-informed decision-making, the technology is evolving from a productivity tool into a true design partner. SJ has engineering and technical excellence embedded in our DNA and understands what is needed to adapt to new challenges and embrace new, innovative ways of working.”

“Supporting James, I look forward to guiding SJ Group through this next phase,” adds Murray, “harnessing our expertise to support the energy transition, accelerate innovation, while remaining a purpose-driven organisation.”

James Phillis is based in Singapore and Murray Kretschmer in Brisbane, jointly leading the Infrastructure + Energy division globally.

 

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