A Civil Engineer with over 25 years of experience, including management of large business units and project teams, Karen joined SMEC in 2015 and moved to Hong Kong to manage the North Asia and Philippines business portfolio. She was promoted to Deputy Chief Operating Officer ASEAN in 2018 and subsequently moved to Jakarta, with Indonesia being a growing market of strategic importance for our business.
“I’m delighted to formally join SMEC’s Executive Committee and have the opportunity to not only manage our operations in ASEAN and the Pacific, but also contribute to our global strategy,” said Karen. “It’s an exciting time for our region, as we work closely with our clients and partners to address some of our most significant challenges, including sustainability, energy transition and water security, through technical expertise and resilient infrastructure solutions.”
“Karen has been instrumental in restructuring and growing SMEC’s operations in the ASEAN business, and she is currently heading up many new growth initiatives in this region,” said Hari Poologasundram, SMEC CEO and CEO International, Surbana Jurong Group. “She brings a significant project track record, deep management experience and diversity of thought and perspective to our Executive Committee.”
In addition to her recent appointment to the board of the International Hydropower Association for the East Asia and Pacific region, Karen has also been appointed to the board of the SMEC Foundation.
“It’s my pleasure to welcome Karen Atkinson as a Director of the SMEC Foundation,” said Roger Bayliss, SMEC Foundation Chairman. “Karen’s combination of executive management expertise and international experience will strengthen the Foundation as we broaden our charity partnerships and operational reach.”
