Meet some Strategic Advisers - Kyle Alexander

“At a key time for Northern Ireland, the SIB gives me the chance to influence what’s happening.”

What were your key motivations to join the SIB?

I saw the opportunity to shape the strategic approach to regeneration as well as to get involved in programme delivery. It was the combination of the two that was most appealing for me. The SIB is well-placed within Government to deliver on both these aspects. At a key time for Northern Ireland, the SIB gives me the chance to influence what’s happening.

What influence have you had since you joined?

Right from the outset, I was straight into a number of different aspects of the role. As representative for the North West, I create connections between the region and the SIB, making sure its voice is heard in terms of strategy. I was also asked to offer advice on several regeneration plans proposed throughout Northern Ireland which gave me an immediate opportunity to draw on my experience.

I suppose another way I have had influence is that I have developed and shaped my role to some extent. It’s not the sort of job where you walk in on your first day and get told exactly what you’ll be doing. You have to create your space at the table by the level and quality of advice you can offer.

What are the key challenges for you to tackle over the next 12 months?

One of my projects is the Maze Long Kesh development where I’m taking on the role of Programme Director. This gives me a tremendous opportunity to influence the planning and development of what is the largest and most symbolic publicly-owned site in Northern Ireland in terms of transformation.

The challenge is to come up with a regeneration scheme that will be acceptable to all. One option we’re looking at is a new sports stadium which will be an ‘icon of integration’ with anchor tenants from the three key sports – Ulster Rugby, Irish Football Association and the Gaelic Athletics Association. The others are a major mixed-use development scheme and an international conflict transformation centre.

My involvement has been to help manage the whole process. We’re at the stage where we expect to take the proposal to the Executive before the end of the year. Subject to their approval of the scheme I would then be involved in bringing together a team to take forward the site's development. Like I said before, the mix of strategy and hands-on delivery is what I find most interesting.

How would you describe the culture within SIB?

Very good. I thoroughly enjoy working alongside the Chief Executive and there’s great team morale in the office. Everyone brings their own skills, knowledge and expertise. I feel part of a group of people who want to get things done and to make a difference. It’s exciting, particularly at a time when the new Executive needs to deliver results.

What was your background before you joined?

I’ve been involved in urban regeneration for 25 years in both the public and private sectors. My last job was Chief Executive of Laganside Corporation, during which time we were responsible for transforming the waterfront in Belfast. Previous to that I had worked for the Building Design Partnership and spent 10 years in the Northern Ireland Housing Executive.