Leadership rejigs at Mott MacDonald Middle East; Rick Hopper named as Managing Director

Mott MacDonald, a global engineering, management and consultancy firm, has appointed Rick Hopper as the new Managing Director for the Middle East region, effective immediately. 

Rick takes over responsibilities from Paul Hilton, who moves into a new role as Managing Director for Middle East, South Asia and international development. In addition to this, Jonathan Looker as Divisional General Manager for Saudi Arabia. 

In his new role, Rick brings over two decades of leadership experience to his new role. “He will be responsible for providing strategic leadership to Mott MacDonald’s Middle East business, overseeing a growing portfolio of projects in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar. He will focus on developing strong relationships with a select list of clients to ensure we continue to win and deliver high-value projects across the Middle East,” the company stated announcing the leadership change. 

Rick joined Mott MacDonald Saudi Arabia in 2023 as Managing Director, and has played a key  role in its significant growth and expansion. Rick’s successor Looker will work closely with him supporting the business operations and growth across the region. 

Looker began his career with Mott MacDonald in 2002, and has held key roles over the years including, as the Sector Advisory Leader and Development Director for the Middle East, driving strategy and growth across the region. The company said, “His leadership and vision will be vital for the successful delivery of Mott MacDonald’s work related to Saudi giga projects as well as recruiting and developing talent and securing new work in the buildings, transport, water and energy markets.”

Rick added, "The Middle East’s bold ambitions demand world-class engineering solutions and highly skilled and talented people to bring them to life. I look forward to leading our business and working with our clients across the region to deliver transformative projects that drive sustainable economic growth, social value and environmental stewardship.”

Jonathan also commented, “Saudi Vision 2030 provides an opportunity to drive sustainable development in this fast-changing market. I’m eager to build a dynamic, locally rooted team that combines global expertise with deep regional insight. This not only allows us to deliver exceptional value across Saudi Arabia but also to bring new ideas and momentum back to our wider global business.”

Paul also posted on LinkedIn, "After an incredible journey leading Mott MacDonald’s Middle East business, I’m honoured to step into a new role as Regional Managing Director for our Middle East, South Asia and International Development (ISMA & IDSR) business.

This role brings with it the responsibility of leading a team of nearly 3,000 professionals, delivering transformative projects in rail, aviation, water, power, and climate resilience. I look forward to building on our legacy of impact and innovation, and to forging new partnerships that drive sustainable development and inclusive growth."