He succeeds Gregory Hodkinson who completes his five-year term at that date, the maximum tenure for chairman of Arup.

Belfield will be leading Arup’s 15,000-strong team. He will oversee a global business with turnover in excess of £1.6bn across advisory, planning, engineering, design and management services in the cities, energy, transport and water markets.

He brings a wealth of experience having previously led Arup’s operations across the United Kingdom, Middle East and Africa.

Deputy chairman Tristram Carfrae has been reappointed in that role for a further three-year term.

Belfield said: “In these uncertain political and economic times, our work and our values have never mattered more. Along with my colleagues, I look forward to working with our clients all around the world on projects that make a real difference to people’s lives.