5 minutes with Chris Williams

After qualifying at the accounting firm, Arthur Andersen, Chris Williams spent over ten years in the retail and health and fitness sectors before joining Foster + Partners’ accounts team in 2007. Chris was made Senior Executive Partner and Finance Partner in 2023. He is one of three new Partnership Board appointments to strengthen and support the Board team.

Chris selects his favourite Foster + Partners project, shares a recent source of inspiration, and tells us about his connection with the Yorkshire countryside.

Earliest memory at Foster + Partners

I joined Foster + Partners in 2007 – when the ‘Foster 40’ book was published – presenting forty key projects for forty years. I remember being so impressed by the practice’s portfolio, which spanned all scales and typologies. Over the past seventeen years, it’s been amazing to witness first-hand how this body of work has grown and evolved.

A standout project

Zayed National Museum, which kicked-off soon after I joined the practice and is still going today. The size and complexity of this project is truly incredible. When complete, the museum will showcase the social and economic transformation of the Emirates and be the centrepiece of the Saadiyat Island Cultural District.

Zayed National Museum will combine a highly efficient, contemporary form with elements of traditional Arabic design and hospitality. © Foster + Partners

A mentor

I worked with Matthew Streets [Managing Partner from 2016 – 2023] for five years before joining Foster + Partners – and for twenty years in total. I was fortunate to work with him on many aspects of our financial reporting and governance processes.

A recent source of inspiration

I’ve been reading a book called ‘Black Box Thinking,’ by Matthew Syed, which focusses on how making marginal gains and learning from mistakes are both critical to success.

A favourite building you’ve visited

McLaren Technology Centre. The whole ensemble – building, cars and construction methodology – exemplifies the pursuit of technical perfection.

The McLaren Technology Centre includes design studios, laboratories and testing and production facilities for Formula One and high-performance sports cars. © Nigel Young / Foster + Partners

Your favourite city to visit

I got married in Madrid and have spent a lot of time there over the years. The city’s wide tree-lined streets and low-rise residential buildings have always appealed to me. It’s got an amazing vitality and spirit.

Where do you call home?

I grew up in East Yorkshire, which still feels like home to me. I know it’s a cliché but the locals are so welcoming – I love going back.

Early bird or night owl?

Night owl – but with a lot of coffee during the day to help me through.

One thing you can’t live without

When I can, I spend my free time watching or playing sport. I’m a Liverpool supporter and an AFC Wimbledon season ticket holder. I try to go to every AFC Wimbledon home game with my fanatic of a son.

Where will you be this weekend?

In Yorkshire, visiting my parents and playing golf with my brother. It's a sport we've enjoyed together for many years.

Chris and his brother playing golf in Aughton, East Yorkshire, 2024.