Richard graduated from the University of Auckland in civil/structural engineering. After the ‘obligatory overseas experience’ he embarked on a 50-year career journey with Beca, which included being Chief Executive 2000-2009 and Executive Chairman 2009-2017. Richard is now a consultant to Beca and no longer involved in its operational activities.

Richard has held a number of external directorships: Trustpower Limited 2010-2019, Transpower Limited 2019-2022, Panuku Development Auckland Limited, director from 2015 and chair 2016-2018, Director of the Waterview Project Alliance board from 2011 and Chair from 2015 to completion, member of the Trust Board of the Power Engineering Excellence Trust, University of Canterbury 2002-2014 and Chair of the Construction Strategy Group from 2010 to 2015.