Walker Sime has introduced Sheryl Durham as their new Director of Project Controls and Decarbonisation Lead. With a career spanning two decades on major UK energy transition and net-zero projects, Durham is set to drive Walker Sime’s growth in the energy and infrastructure sectors.
Durham is a passionate advocate for “the art of the possible,” inspired by a dedication to projects that aim to leave a cleaner planet for the future. “We’re pushing innovative projects that are first of their kind at scale, and that’s something worth getting swept up in. It’s a thrilling opportunity to work on projects that can make a real difference,” she says.
Durham’s journey in project controls began on oil and gas projects in Northern Canada before transitioning to nuclear and low-carbon energy projects in Canada and the UK. Working with top engineering and construction experts, she has spent the past decade leading flagship energy transition projects that shift away from traditional oil and gas towards net-zero power and industry solutions.
Recently, Durham led the project controls for the Sizewell C Civils Design Programme, where she set up and managed an extensive system covering schedule, cost, performance, risk, and change management within the £500 million engineering part of the £8 billion civil works programme. Her expertise in assembling cross-functional control teams ensured high standards in reporting and coordination across key stakeholders.
At Walker Sime, Durham aims to advance the company’s project controls capabilities and work with investors and stakeholders on complex, large-scale decarbonisation projects. “These projects are massive, and timelines and budgets are often laden with optimism bias. My role is to help all stakeholders understand the full scope, set out proactive processes to measure and evaluate progress, and manage risks appropriately,” she explains.
Her vision for Walker Sime includes strengthening its reputation as a trusted partner in delivering energy transition projects. “Walker Sime has a history of punching above its weight. We have the expertise, the passion, and the people to support these large-scale infrastructure projects,” Durham adds. “That’s a huge part of why I’m here—to help shape a more sustainable world and make a lasting impact.”
