Chief executive

As UKGBC chief executive, Smith is leading the organisation through a critical period for the UK to get back on track to net zero. Combining their deep science-based understanding of the climate emergency with a principled approach to transforming our built environment, Smith is a committed and passionate advocate for building a future economy where people, society, and ecology can flourish. 

Smith’s distinguished career includes leadership roles in architecture and engineering firms Buro Happold, Webb Yates Engineers, and Studio Weave, as well as authorship of several high-impact initiatives and reports, including to COP26 in Glasgow. Smith has also held a wide range of industry positions from which they have campaigned for a just transition to a more sustainable future, including as Board Member for the Journal of City Climate Policy and Economy and The Architecture Foundation, and as a nationally elected Councillor at RIBA. A prolific thought leader, Smith has contributed regularly to national and trade press including the Guardian, Financial Times, Dezeen, and The Architect’s Journal.