Alice Charles

Alice Charles, renowned for her influential roles in urban development and smart city implementation, stands out as a beacon of insight and knowledge in the realm of sustainability. With her profound experience, including her former position as the Lead of Cities, Infrastructure, and Urban Services for the World Economic Forum (WEF), Alice has played a pivotal role in executing avant-garde urban development strategies across the globe. Currently, as the Director of Cities, Planning, and Design for Arup, Alice is overwhelmingly sought as a keynote speaker, bringing her 18 years of robust industry experience to the fore.

At the WEF, Alice meticulously managed multifarious projects associated with urbanisation and city schemes, ensuring the longevity and sustainability of areas through future-proofing initiatives. Her contribution to developing the WEF’s Fourth Industrial Revolution City Preparedness Protocol was instrumental in aiding city leaders to intensify technology applications in smart city initiatives. Alice’s commitment to sustainable urban development is further reflected in her endeavours such as the management of the Future of Urban Development and Services Initiative, the Global Future Council on Cities and Urbanisation and the Global Agenda Council on the Future of Cities.

Whilst working in the Irish Parliament, Alice’s acumen was pivotal in drafting innovative policies on urban planning and overseeing the implementation of EU legislation for housing and planning departments. Alice’s impactful work in the Irish Parliament underscores her commitment to creating resilient, sustainable urban environments and highlights her expertise in translating visionary ideas into actionable policies. Alice’s distinguished memberships in the Royal Town Planning Institute and the Irish Planning Institute, coupled with her work with various government departments, accentuate her authority in the field.

Named on the Irish Echo 40 Under 40, Alice’s impact as a speaker is palpable, with her visionary approach and extensive insights into urbanisation and city preparedness for technological advancements positioning her as an exemplar in discussions on sustainable cities. Her capacity to enlighten audiences and inspire transformative change has made her a recurrent figure at global conferences – including the Smart City Expo World Congress in 2018 and the MIT Senseable City Lab 2019. Alice’s eloquence, professionalism, and unparalleled knowledge make her an impeccable choice for those seeking a keynote speaker with an authoritative voice on the future of smart cities and sustainable urban development. Whether you seek to enlighten your audience about innovative urban development strategies, the implementation of smart city technologies, or the future of sustainable urban landscapes, Alice Charles is a fantastic choice.