Roger Ridsdill Smith
About Roger Ridsdill Smith
Roger Ridsdill Smith is a Senior Partner and Head of Structural Engineering at Foster + Partners, where he has worked since 2010. He previously served as Director at Arup for 16 years and has contributed to notable projects including the Vatican Chapel and the new Tocumen Airport.
Work at Foster and Partners
Roger Ridsdill Smith has served as Senior Partner and Head of Structural Engineering at Foster + Partners since 2010. In this role, he leads the structural engineering team and is responsible for overseeing various high-profile projects. His leadership has been instrumental in the design and execution of significant architectural works, including the Vatican Chapel for the 2018 Venice Biennale. Smith's expertise in structural engineering contributes to the firm's reputation for innovative and sustainable design solutions.
Previous Experience at Arup
Before joining Foster + Partners, Roger Ridsdill Smith worked at Arup as a Director from 2003 to 2010. His tenure at Arup spanned 16 years, during which he developed a strong foundation in structural engineering. His experience at Arup equipped him with the skills necessary to manage complex engineering projects and collaborate effectively with multidisciplinary teams.
Education and Expertise
Roger Ridsdill Smith studied at the University of Cambridge from 1986 to 1989, where he earned a Master of Arts (MA) in Engineering. This academic background provides him with a solid understanding of engineering principles and practices. His education, combined with extensive professional experience, positions him as an expert in structural engineering within the architectural field.
Major Projects and Contributions
Throughout his career, Roger Ridsdill Smith has contributed to several notable projects. He played a key role in the design of the Maggie’s Centre in Manchester and oversaw the structural engineering of the new Tocumen Airport in Panama City. Additionally, he is currently involved in the structural engineering of four towers in Qatar and contributed to the design of the Samson Pavilion at Case Western Reserve University and Cleveland Clinic in Ohio.