Sue Threader

Chief Executive of the Rochester Bridge Trust, Elected Bridgemaster of London, Rochester Bridge Trust

A Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers with senior-level experience in the public, private and charity sectors, Sue is the first woman Chief Executive of the medieval charity that owns Rochester Bridge, which is managed with Net Zero Carbon emissions. Sue speaks on historic bridge engineering and has appeared on Channel 5 with Rob Bell sharing her expertise.  She is one of the elected Bridgemasters of London, a Board Trustee for the City Bridge Foundation, a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Engineers and Chair of the ICE Archives Panel. Sue holds an Honorary Doctorate and an ICE award for outstanding career contribution to civil engineering and has been shortlisted for Charity Chief Executive of the Year three times.

My Sessions at Bridges 2026

Wednesday 11 March 2026

16:10

Closing Keynote: The Bridgemasters of London – 850 Years of Engineering, Ceremony and Scandal

16:10 - 16:40
  • The role of Bridgemaster was established in 1176 to oversee the construction of Old London Bridge and the management of its properties, accounts and ceremonies. Over the centuries the position was office was often marred by financial fraud, election manipulation and negligence.
  • This talk by one of the current Bridgemasters will give a fascinating insight into one of the most ancient appointments in bridge engineering, with tales of scandal and controversy and an insight into the modern role of promoting the charitable work of the City Bridge Foundation.

Speakers