Can Spain Solve Britain’s Infrastructure Puzzle?
How can Spain’s world-renowned expertise in engineering, transport and urban development help shape the future of British infrastructure? What lessons can the UK learn from Spain’s proven track record in delivering large-scale projects efficiently and sustainably?
The Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK, in collaboration with Members Crestview Strategy and TYLin, invites you to an insightful roundtable exploring how Spanish know-how can be successfully applied to British infrastructure initiatives.
Led by Alex Wright, Vice President at Crestview Strategy, this discussion will bring together leading voices from across the built environment, including experts in engineering, infrastructure, public administration, law, and finance, to share their perspectives on bridging these two dynamic markets.
Join our panel for a lively conversation about translating Spanish expertise into successful British infrastructure projects. Speakers will share insights on best practices, challenges, and opportunities for cross-market collaboration.
Co-hosted by TYLin, a Sidara company, the discussion will focus on:
- The benefits of early engagement in British infrastructure development
- Common challenges across the Spanish and UK markets
- De-risking UK projects
- Best practices to navigate the UK planning system
- Case studies of Spanish success in the British market
Designed for professionals in infrastructure, construction and policy, this event offers a unique opportunity to gain cross-market insights and connect with like-minded professionals shaping the UK’s built environment.
Date & Time: Thursday 15th January 2026, 08:30 (for a 09:00 start) – 10:30
Location: Sidara Headquarters | 150 Holborn | London EC1N 2NS
This session is open to both Members and non-Members and is free for Members of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK.
About the speakers
Alex Wright – Vice President, Crestview Strategy
Alex Wright is a communications specialist with extensive experience in the built environment, advising on projects across housing, infrastructure, data centres, healthcare, logistics, and regeneration. Previously, he served as Campaign Director and strategist for the Conservative Party, working closely with government ministers and leading successful election campaigns across the UK.
Born and raised in Spain, Alex also worked for the British government in Madrid and maintains strong relationships with senior politicians in Spain. He leads Crestview’s engagement with Spanish Chambers of Commerce globally and works closely with UK and Spanish trade departments.
John Downer – UK Growth Lead, TYLin 
John Downer has nearly 25 years’ experience in infrastructure consultancy. He started as an Environmental Scientist in waste management and delivered facilities and collection services during the private finance era and recycling boom. From 2014, he led projects in rail, highways, and aviation, ultimately heading the European Transportation business at Jacobs.
At TYLin, John has collaborated with Spanish contractors in healthcare and ports across Sidara businesses, witnessing first-hand the excellence Spanish experts bring to UK design and delivery.
José V. Candel – Engineering Director, Ferrovial 
José V. Candel holds a Civil Engineering degree from the Polytechnic University of Valencia, specialising in structures. He also graduated from the Program for Management Development at IESE.
With 20 years’ experience, he joined Ferrovial Construction in 2013 and has led major infrastructure projects, including the Batinah Expressway in Oman and the D4R7 PPP project (Danube Bridges) in Slovakia. In 2020, he joined the UK team as Engineering Director for the HS2 Main Works C23 infrastructure project (EKFB JV). Since early 2025, he has led the engineering strategy for HS2 Track Systems (FBRS JV).
About Crestview
Crestview is a global communications consultancy specialising in integrated campaigns that influence public opinion, shape policy at all levels of government, and deliver winning outcomes for clients. With over 150 professionals across 10 international offices, Crestview combines strategic insight with local knowledge to deliver measurable impact across sectors of all sizes.
About TyLin
Founded in 1954, and with 3,500+ people globally, TYLin is a full-service, professional engineering firm focused on the planning, design, and construction of infrastructure solutions. Our 500+ technical professionals in UK & Europe deliver world-class rail, tunnel, bridge, road, and ports infrastructure through technical excellence and innovation. Launched in the UK in 2024, we are dedicated to elevating our communities through our creativity, multidisciplinary capabilities, and commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
Important Notice:
We work with a photo and video team at our events, and we may publish their work on our website, social media accounts, and other communication channels. By registering for this event, you acknowledge and agree to this.
