SMEC Executive and Leadership Team

September, 2026

Leadership Overview

SMEC has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, infrastructure development, regional operations, ownership, financial management, and corporate leadership.

Driven by a commitment to technical excellence, SMEC delivers innovative engineering and infrastructure solutions that support global economic development across the entire project lifecycle.

Leadership Roles at SMEC

  • Chief Executive Officer - Logashri Sewnarain
  • Chief Executive Officer, Infrastructure & Energy - James Phillis
  • Chief Executive Officer & Division Chief Operating Officer, PA To The Smec & , Africa (South Africa) - Cynthia McArthy
  • Owner & Chief Executive Officer - Ilia Klimakov
  • Chief Financial Officer - Alastair McKendrick
  • President - Larry Pastrana
  • Logashri Sewnarain - Chief Executive Officer

    Logashri Sewnarain, the Chief Executive Officer at SMEC, directs the overarching strategic vision and global operations of the firm. Sewnarain architects high-level business initiatives that align engineering expertise with the evolving demands of international infrastructure markets. By fostering collaboration across diverse technical divisions, the Chief Executive Officer ensures consistent delivery of complex project management services. This leadership role involves maintaining rigorous standards of design innovation while expanding the company footprint across multiple continents. Sewnarain drives sustainable growth by optimizing internal processes and strengthening client relationships in both established and emerging markets. Through the implementation of forward-thinking management frameworks, the Chief Executive Officer secures the long-term competitive position of the firm. Logashri Sewnarain maintains a focus on operational efficiency, ensuring that every project lifecycle phase meets the high expectations of global stakeholders while supporting critical infrastructure development worldwide.

    James Phillis - Chief Executive Officer, Infrastructure & Energy

    James Phillis, the Chief Executive Officer, Infrastructure & Energy at SMEC, manages the specialized delivery of large-scale energy and infrastructure projects. Phillis oversees the technical execution of complex engineering designs, ensuring that energy sector initiatives align with global sustainability goals. The Chief Executive Officer, Infrastructure & Energy coordinates cross-functional teams to provide comprehensive solutions from initial planning through to final maintenance. By leveraging deep industry knowledge, Phillis drives the expansion of energy-related services across international markets. This role requires constant interaction with project stakeholders to mitigate risks and enhance operational performance. James Phillis maintains a rigorous focus on technical excellence, ensuring that every infrastructure project contributes to regional economic development. Through the strategic oversight of energy portfolios, the Chief Executive Officer, Infrastructure & Energy secures vital project outcomes that reinforce the reputation of the firm as a leader in global engineering consulting.

    Cynthia McArthy - Chief Executive Officer & Division Chief Operating Officer, PA To The Smec & , Africa (South Africa)

    Cynthia McArthy, the Chief Executive Officer & Division Chief Operating Officer, PA To The Smec & , Africa (South Africa) at SMEC, directs all operational activities within the African market. McArthy architects regional growth strategies that address the unique infrastructure challenges found across the continent. The Chief Executive Officer & Division Chief Operating Officer, PA To The Smec & , Africa (South Africa) manages the day-to-day execution of engineering projects, ensuring that local teams maintain alignment with global quality standards. By optimizing resource allocation and project delivery timelines, McArthy drives efficiency across the entire African division. This leadership role involves navigating complex regulatory environments to deliver essential infrastructure services that support local economic development. Cynthia McArthy ensures that regional operations remain agile and responsive to client needs. Through the consistent application of technical expertise, the Chief Executive Officer & Division Chief Operating Officer, PA To The Smec & , Africa (South Africa) strengthens the market presence of the firm throughout Africa.

    Ilia Klimakov - Owner & Chief Executive Officer

    Ilia Klimakov, the Owner & Chief Executive Officer at SMEC, provides the foundational governance and long-term strategic direction for the organization. Klimakov architects the core business philosophy, ensuring that the firm remains committed to the technical excellence established during the Snowy Mountains Hydroelectric Scheme. The Owner & Chief Executive Officer oversees the alignment of corporate values with global project management objectives. By maintaining a focus on innovation and design quality, Klimakov drives the firm toward sustainable international expansion. This leadership role involves high-level decision-making regarding market entry and capital investment strategies. Ilia Klimakov ensures that the company maintains a robust competitive advantage through the continuous development of engineering capabilities. Through the oversight of corporate governance, the Owner & Chief Executive Officer secures the stability and future growth of the firm, ensuring that all divisions contribute effectively to the overarching mission of delivering essential infrastructure services worldwide.

    Alastair McKendrick - Chief Financial Officer

    Alastair McKendrick, the Chief Financial Officer at SMEC, directs the financial health and fiscal strategy of the global consulting firm. McKendrick architects robust financial frameworks that support the complex project lifecycle requirements of engineering and infrastructure services. The Chief Financial Officer manages capital allocation, budgeting, and financial reporting to ensure the firm maintains a strong balance sheet across all international operations. By analyzing market trends and economic indicators, McKendrick drives informed decision-making that mitigates financial risk while maximizing profitability. This leadership role involves close collaboration with the executive team to align financial resources with strategic growth initiatives. Alastair McKendrick ensures that the company maintains fiscal discipline while investing in the technical innovation necessary for global project delivery. Through the rigorous management of financial assets, the Chief Financial Officer secures the long-term economic viability of the firm, supporting the successful execution of infrastructure projects in diverse markets.

    Larry Pastrana - President

    Larry Pastrana, the President at SMEC, directs the operational execution of corporate strategy across the global business units. Pastrana architects initiatives that enhance the delivery of engineering and project management services, ensuring that client expectations are met with technical precision. The President oversees the integration of design innovation into all project phases, from initial planning to final maintenance. By fostering a culture of excellence, Pastrana drives the performance of cross-functional teams operating in diverse international markets. This leadership role involves coordinating with other C-suite executives to ensure that operational activities support the broader mission of the firm. Larry Pastrana maintains a focus on efficiency and quality, ensuring that the company remains a preferred partner for infrastructure development. Through the strategic management of operational workflows, the President secures the consistent delivery of high-value consulting expertise, reinforcing the position of the firm as a leader in the global construction and architecture sector.
    Larry Pastrana

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding SMEC Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads SMEC?
    SMEC is led by Logashri Sewnarain (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as James Phillis (Chief Executive Officer, Infrastructure & Energy) and Cynthia McArthy (Chief Executive Officer & Division Chief Operating Officer, PA To The Smec & , Africa (South Africa)).
    Who is part of SMEC’s executive team?
    The executive team of SMEC includes leaders such as Logashri Sewnarain (Chief Executive Officer), James Phillis (Chief Executive Officer, Infrastructure & Energy), Cynthia McArthy (Chief Executive Officer & Division Chief Operating Officer, PA To The Smec & , Africa (South Africa)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does SMEC have?
    SMEC has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in SMEC’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of SMEC includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Infrastructure & Energy, Chief Executive Officer & Division Chief Operating Officer, PA To The Smec & , Africa (South Africa), Owner & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer.