Sofia Athanassiou Recognised as one of the 100 Most Influential Women in Engineering

Sofia Athanassiou, Commercial Director at Connect Plus (CP), has been announced as one of the top 100 Most Influential Women in the Engineering Sector. The list, which is produced by board appointments firm Inclusive Boards in partnership with the Financial Times, recognises exceptional women role models across the industry.

Sofia has earned a position on this list, having excelled throughout her career. Sofia provides leadership across the wider CP stakeholder community and is an Executive Director for Connect Plus. Sofia is also responsible for the commercial robustness of the asset renewal program; and the contract/commercial performance of Connect Plus and its supply chain.

Andy Dean, Chief Executive, Connect Plus, said: “We are delighted that Sofia’s contribution to the industry has been recognised by Inclusive Boards and the Financial Times. It is vital that as an industry we continue to break down barriers and encourage more women to enter and remain in the sector.

“Sofia’s journey is a prime example of the career opportunities available. Sofia has progressed from Bid Manager to Commercial Director and Executive Director on the Board, all whilst balancing her responsibilities as a working mother and maintaining a healthy work-life balance.”

Sofia is passionate about bringing young women into Engineering and advises women to “never stop learning, stay curious.”

The full ‘100 Most Influential Women in the Engineering Sector’ list can be found here.

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Notes to Editors

About Connect Plus and Connect Plus Services

  • Over 10 years ago, Highways England awarded Connect Plus the contract to operate and manage the M25 and its key arterial link roads.
  • Connect Plus is a consortium that includes Edge Orbital Holdings Ltd, Balfour Beatty and Egis Road Operation UK - a unique partnership with a collective strength in highways maintenance and management.
  • Connect Plus Services (CPS), is Connect Plus’ specialist and strategic supply chain partner responsible for operations and maintenance, bringing together the collective strength and expertise of its parent companies, Balfour Beatty, Atkins and Egis Road Operation UK.
  • With a workforce of around 600 people, based at seven locations around the network, CPS carries out routine maintenance, and whole-life management of thousands of M25 assets. CPS manages the operation of the network 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, including a severe weather season maintenance programme.
  • Over the past 10 years, collectively we’ve delivered over £1.4bn worth of road improvements and junction enhancements, and we’re continually exploring new and innovative ways to deliver safer, more reliable journeys for our customers. Together, we’re passionate about delivering the long-term needs of the M25 and improving the driving experience for all our customers.
  • For further information please visit https://www.connectplusm25.co.uk/ or follow us at https://twitter.com/cpservices_m25