MEET OUR PEOPLE
Tracy D’Souza.
Director - Science and Research Regional Sector Lead
Matt Evans.
Director of Finance
Dr. Hóng Liáng. (Holy Liang)
Director – Fire
Tell us about your role?
I will be leading our Science and Research efforts so we can be strategic in our focus and consistently client-centric in our approach across the region. My aim is to support our delivery teams and strengthen our position by understanding our clients better. I also want to showcase our unique expertise and innovations to grow our presence in this sector - demonstrating how Hoare Lea can solve our clients’ biggest challenges.
What are you most excitied about getting stuck into?
I’m particularly interested in advancing sustainable laboratories across the sector. Laboratories typically consume three to ten times more energy than office spaces due to the nature of the research they support. Through my work, I’ve demonstrated that even in laboratories requiring stringent environmental conditions, 24/7 operation, and energy‑intensive equipment, small changes can deliver significant impact.
I would love to see Hoare Lea leading the charge on sustainable lab design, not only from our S&R experience, but working across our other divisions and sectors to share knowledge around how we can make a positive difference on the journey to net zero.
What's your favourite thing to do on a day off?
My favourite thing to do on a day off would be to hang out with my family and friends, go explore somewhere new and have a nice meal – especially local delicacies. My life generally revolves around my family and eating nice food, so whenever they are intrinsically intertwined it’s a great day!
What will you be doing in your new role?
In my new role I’ll be leading and supporting the Finance team, ensuring we meet our reporting requirements while also providing commercial insight to support sustainable growth within the business.
What are you most excited about?
Beyond the day-to-day Finance remit, I’m especially looking forward to learning more about the projects that Hoare Lea is delivering. There is already some impressive work here, and I’m keen to understand more about the wider impact and future opportunity! I also firmly believe that we are not bringing enough graduates into our industry as a whole and that we need to invest heavily in developing the next generation of engineers.
What's your favourite thing to do on a day off?
I like to be out hiking or kayaking, often paired with small camping trips with the family. I enjoy exploring - anywhere from New Forest, which is local for me, or further afield like North Wales. More recently we've been adventuring in the Peak District which has been amazing.
Tell us about yourself.
I have more than 20 years of experience and I have a PhD in thermal dynamics and heat transfer. I actively contribute to the evolution of industry standards and practices and sit on the standards committee for fire safety. I also won ‘Fire Industry Woman of the Year 2025’ at the Fire and Security Awards.
What is your role?
I am working with the Fire team but with a London focus. I hope to shape and direct the development of the team and their technical excellence. One thing I would like to do is elevate our profile with our clients, industry stakeholder organisations, as well as government and academic institutions. We do great work, and I want this to be shared far and wide.
What are you most excited about?
What excites me most is the opportunity to help shape the direction of the business. Ultimately, as a director, I am looking forward to balance technical excellence with leadership and business development and being able to influence the long-term success of the company while mentoring the next generation of fire engineers.
What do you do in your free time?
Exercise and get fit! I also like to read books and record audiobooks. Spending time with my family at the weekends is also very important to me.