Chris Founds, Owner and Lead Managing Consultant at Founds Group.

Chris is a civil engineer by background and a nationally recognised voice in the convergence of digital infrastructure, highways, planning, and placemaking. Chris brings over 30 years of executive-level experience across both public and private sectors, where he has built a trustworthy reputation, underpinned by his commitment and expertise across the industry.

Chris started Founds Group (previously CJ Founds Associates) ten years ago with a mission to help local authorities and partners unlock the full potential of digital and transport infrastructure to deliver real-world outcomes for communities. Today, the consultancy leads transformative programmes that integrate place, energy and transport, delivering infrastructure that works for his clients and ultimately the people they serve.

Chris has a wealth of experience across UK Local and Combined Authorities, National Transport Bodies and major contractors, where he has successfully led a range of ground-breaking initiatives, including:

• GMCA 5GIR Programme – a pioneering project combining digital connectivity, transport and energy infrastructure across Greater Manchester
• St Helens Digital Infrastructure Project – delivering open-access fibre networks to revitalise the town centre
• LCR Connect – linking backhaul fibre across the Liverpool City Region to support business connectivity
• Berkshire Digital Infrastructure Group – aligning six local authorities behind a shared digital strategy
• Burgess Hill Growth Programme – supporting placemaking and infrastructure delivery in Mid Sussex

Chris’s career spans key leadership roles including Highways and Transportation Director, Programme Manager for Combined Authorities, and Strategic Advisor across a variety of high-impact national and local projects. He is known for his collaborative, pragmatic approach to complex delivery — unlocking value and innovation for public sector bodies.

Beyond delivery, Chris is a passionate advocate for professional development and knowledge-sharing. Through the Founds Group Academy, he supports the next generation of talent entering the infrastructure sector, ensuring Client teams are given the tools to lead future projects, alongside being committed to long-term sustainability.

Chris is a well-known speaker at major events, including Connected Britain and Highways UK using his insights and knowledge on how infrastructure can be designed and delivered to meet the evolving needs of people, places, and the planet.