The National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority (NISTA) has today confirmed the appointment of Julia Prescot as the new Chair of its Council of Expert Advisers.
Julia has worked in global infrastructure investment and delivery throughout her career and has previously served as Deputy Chair of the National Infrastructure Commission, which became part of NISTA in April 2025.
The NISTA Council provides impartial, expert advice to ministers and the NISTA CEO Becky Wood to support the implementation of the government’s 10 Year strategy for economic, housing and social infrastructure and the delivery of NISTA’s broader objectives, including managing the Infrastructure Pipeline and supporting the Government Major Projects Portfolio.
As Chair, Julia Prescot will provide strategic leadership to the NISTA Council and impartial and expert advice on implementation and go/no-go decisions for major projects to the CEO and ministers, as well as engaging with stakeholders across government, business and the investor community.
James Murray, Chief Secretary to the Treasury said
Julia brings a wealth of hands-on experience in the industry to this new role as Chair of NISTA’s Advisory Council, and we’re really pleased to have her in this post. Planning for and delivering critical infrastructure is such an important part of Britain’s renewal and Julia will have a key role to play advising and guiding NISTA – and advising government on infrastructure in general – over the coming years.
Becky Wood, NISTA Chief Executive Officer said
I am delighted to welcome Julia’s appointment as Chair of NISTA’s Expert Advisory Council. Her exceptional experience across both the public and private sectors and her insights into delivering complex infrastructure will be invaluable as we drive forward the government’s ambitions, and I very much look forward to working closely with her.
Julia Prescot CBE, incoming Chair of the NISTA Council of Expert Advisers said
Throughout my career I have seen at first hand the difference that great infrastructure makes to communities and economies. This is an important moment for the country with significant projects either starting or now underway. I am pleased I can bring my experience to bear and help NISTA transform the UK’s strategic approach to infrastructure planning and delivery.
The Chair’s role is a non-executive, part-time position. Julia Prescot’s appointment is for a five-year term and comes after an open competition. She will begin her role as Chair later this month.
Notes to editors
- The National Infrastructure and Service Transformation Authority was established in April 2025 to improve the government’s management of major projects and lead the cross-government delivery of the 10 Year Infrastructure Strategy. The NISTA Council of Expert Advisers supports the delivery of NISTA’s strategy and objectives and, where appropriate, also provides challenge and scrutiny of NISTA’s work. More information on the Council and its remit is available on gov.uk
- A recruitment process to appoint five new members to the NISTA Council of Expert Advisers is being undertaken with the support of the Commissioner for Public Appointments, and an announcement of the new Council members will be made in due course
- The Chair is expected to adhere to the Nolan Principles of Public Life.