August saw significant leadership appointments across the construction and engineering sectors.
- Skanska appointed Jonas Rickberg as their new CFO, a move that highlights strategic financial leadership shifts.
- Mott MacDonald strengthened their water sector presence with pivotal double appointments.
- Galliford Try named Glennan Blackmore as Managing Director for Infrastructure, enhancing market growth strategies.
- Diverse leadership appointments at WSP aim to optimise UK & Ireland operations.
In August 2024, the construction and engineering sectors observed notable leadership changes despite a generally quiet business climate. Key firms like Skanska, Mott MacDonald, Galliford Try, and others filled critical roles, shaping their strategic directions.
Jonas Rickberg was appointed the Chief Financial Officer at Skanska. Previously holding the same title at Scania, Rickberg brings extensive expertise in strategic finance and operational leadership. His experience spans esteemed organisations such as Volvo, showcasing a background in diverse leadership roles, which Skanska anticipates will fortify its financial strategies.
Mott MacDonald made significant strides in the water sector by appointing Anthony Crawford and Karen Murrell to its UK Water Consultancy business. Crawford, now the operational advisory technical director, is tasked with leading efforts to meet challenging AMP8 targets, enhancing customer service, cost-efficiency, and carbon reduction. Karen Murrell steps into the role of water quality technical director, leveraging her experience to develop river water quality models and statistical analysis, thereby informing key restoration decisions.
Galliford Try enhanced their infrastructure sector leadership with the appointment of Glennan Blackmore as managing director. Blackmore, who has over 30 years of construction experience, will focus on expanding the company’s market share and exploring new market opportunities. His previous role with Skanska managing the National Highways portfolio positions him well to drive Galliford Try’s growth.
WSP implemented strategic leadership changes within the UK and Ireland, appointing Astrid Berkman, Kirsten Oliver, and Fiona O’Donnell to pivotal roles. Berkman, with her extensive expertise in the rail sector, joins as executive managing director for planning advisory. Oliver, with a background in energy, becomes managing director of energy, while O’Donnell advances to head of health, safety, environment, and quality, supported by her global strategy experience.
These appointments signal a forward-looking approach within these companies, aiming to leverage experienced leadership to navigate future challenges.
The August appointments reflect strategic foresight in developing leadership to adapt to evolving industry needs.
