Catherine Whitfield of Mott MacDonald has been elected as the new chair of Intelligent Transport Systems UK (ITS UK), with Caroline Hildreth of Netcompany stepping up as vice chair.
Both Ms Whitfield and Ms Hildreth are moving into their new roles following ‘a number of years’ serving on the ITS UK board as the vice chair and financial lead, respectively.
These new appointments come as outgoing chair Stuart Scott steps down after nearly three years in the role. Mr Scott will continue to remain on the Board of ITS UK, having seen ‘considerable growth and success’ under his leadership.
Ms Whitfield said: ‘I am absolutely delighted and honoured to take up the role of chair of ITS UK. It means a great deal to have the trust and support of the industry I value so much. Over the past 30 years, this organisation has built a strong and meaningful legacy, and I’m excited to build on those foundations as we look to the future.
'My focus will be on working alongside the Board and ITS UK team as we continue to evolve, adapt and remain a vital force for the next generation.’
Ms Hildreth added: ‘The transport sector is at a crossroads. We can either shape the future of mobility or watch others do it for us. As vice chair, I'm excited to work alongside our chair, Catherine, and our membership to ensure ITS UK leads that conversation.
‘I want to use my experience, drive and passion for the transport sector and ITS UK’s membership to build an organisation that genuinely advances intelligent transport systems across the UK.’
Max Sugarman, chief executive of ITS UK, welcomed the appointments: ‘Congratulations to both Catherine and Caroline on becoming chair and vice chair. They each bring a wealth of expertise, energy, and a strong commitment to advancing the sector.
'As long-standing board members, they have already made a significant contribution, and I know with both at the helm we will continue to see the organisation grow and flourish. I look forward to working closely with them in their new roles as the organisation develops its plans for 2026 and beyond.'
Mr Sugarman also thanked Mr Scott on behalf of ITS UK, saying that he has been a ‘passionate champion of transport technology and its importance as a strategic industry for the UK’ and that he has been ‘instrumental’ in driving ITS UK to become a more outward-facing organisation.
