By Andrew Warshaw in Doha
February 18 – Qatar’s preparations for the 2022 World Cup took a significant step forward when organisers announced leading global management firm CH2M HILL as a key strategic partner.
The Qatar Supreme Committee made the announcement following a lengthy selection process involving a handful of shortlisted multi-national candidates.
The United States-based firm, who have been working on the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympics, will provide a full consulting, programme management, design, construction and operations programme to ensure that organisation of the first ever World Cup staged in the Middle East runs smoothly.
Commenting on the appointment, Qatar 2022 Supreme Committee secretary general, Hassan Al Thawadi (pictured above) said, “The appointment process for this contract began immediately after winning the bid in December 2010.”
“We studied all the proposals with the utmost care in order to ensure that we selected the right partner.
“While the proposals we received from those companies that made the shortlist were impressive, it was important to us that the appointed company met the set criteria we had in mind, in addition to complimenting and understanding the vision of our committee.
“We believe that CH2M HILL is the ideal partner.”
CH2M HILL’s role will continue for two years after the tournament to make sure legacy pledges are properly implemented.
“Our work with CH2M HILL in planning and delivering a successful World Cup will require cooperation with, and assistance from local stakeholders and partners from both public and private sectors,” said Al Thawadi.
“The road ahead will be challenging.
“Today’s appointment is a key initial milestone on our journey.”
The 30,000-employee CH2M HILL has more than 300 offices globally, including 2,000 staff in the Middle East of whom 200 are based in Qatar, the tiny Gulf state which, as well as hosting the 2022 World Cup, also wants to stage the 2020 Olympics and is due to unveil specific details of its recently submitted bid at a high-profile news conference in Doha on Monday (February 20).
Creating FIFA-approved stadiums that meet all the relevant criteria and do not turn into white elephants is one of Qatar’s most important World Cup challenges.
“We are proud to contribute our global programme management experience to help deliver a landmark 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar,” said Lee McIntire, chairman and chief executive of CH2M HILL which, six years ago, was named as a key delivery partner for the London Olympics and Paralympics covering planning, design and construction.
“Our team brings a proven track record that will assist the Qatar 2022 Supreme Committee in delivering world-class facilities in a sustainable manner.”
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