The construction sector witnessed a significant reshuffling of key positions this week, with major appointments and promotions making headlines.
- Matt Blowers, formerly of ISG, joins Structure Tone as joint managing director, marking a pivotal career move.
- GMI Construction Group elevated Gareth Jones to group MD, citing his impressive track record in the Midlands.
- Industry expert Mark Toye steps in as MD for Igne’s ground investigation division, enhancing its leadership structure.
- Emma McLaughlin-Edwards takes on a pivotal role at Constructing Rainbows, boosting its equality and diversity initiatives.
In a week bustling with executive transitions, the construction sector drew attention with several high-profile appointments. Matt Blowers, who previously held the position of chief executive at ISG, made a notable career shift by joining Structure Tone as joint managing director. This strategic move was revealed by Justin Fahy, Blowers’s new colleague, who mentioned that discussions had been underway since the early part of the year. Fahy elaborated on Blowers’s longstanding industry relationships and expertise, which were significant factors in the decision to bring him aboard.
Amidst these changes, GMI Construction Group climbed the ranks in the CN100 list to secure the 59th position, following the promotion of Gareth Jones to group managing director. Previously serving as divisional MD for the Midlands, Jones was instrumental in generating £85m in revenue, with key projects such as the technical centre at MIRA Technology Park in Warwickshire. His new role will see him collaborating closely with group commercial director Richard Davies.
The ground engineering domain also experienced a leadership enhancement, with Igne appointing Mark Toye as the new managing director for ground investigation in England and Wales. As a chartered geologist and former chair of the British Drilling Association, Toye brings a wealth of experience, having served as estimating director at Socotec. His appointment is expected to fortify Igne’s strategic initiatives in ground investigations.
Another significant appointment was made by Constructing Rainbows, a consultancy specialising in equality and diversity within the industry. Emma McLaughlin-Edwards was welcomed as the new company director. With 20 years of extensive industry experience, including her previous role as executive director of equality, diversity, and inclusion at Emcor UK, McLaughlin-Edwards is set to drive forward the consultancy’s growth agenda, particularly within the built environment sector.
Lastly, the UK’s Real Estate Investment and Infrastructure Forum (UKREiiF) introduced Lord Richard Harrington as the new advisory group chair. Lord Harrington, a former construction minister and chair of developer Regal, is renowned for his influential connections. According to a statement from the forum, his leadership is anticipated to amplify its growth and outreach efforts.
These strategic personnel moves underscore the dynamic and evolving landscape of the construction industry.
