Henry Boot Construction has appointed Lee Powell as its new managing director starting January 2025, succeeding Tony Shaw.
- Tony Shaw, departing at the end of 2024, concludes a 40-year tenure after rising from an apprentice to managing director.
- Lee Powell transitions from GMI Construction, where he served as chief executive since 2022, to lead Henry Boot Construction.
- Lee Powell brings extensive industry experience and a track record of delivering high-quality construction outcomes.
- Tim Roberts, Henry Boot’s CEO, expresses confidence in Powell’s ability to rejuvenate and expand the company’s operations.
Henry Boot Construction has announced the appointment of Lee Powell as its new managing director, effective January 2025. This leadership change marks the succession of Tony Shaw, who will leave the company at the end of 2024 after an extensive 40-year career with Henry Boot. Shaw’s journey with the company began in 1985 when he joined as an apprentice, steadily advancing through various roles such as regional manager and operations director before attaining the role of managing director in 2021.
Lee Powell joins Henry Boot Construction from GMI Construction, where he ascended the ranks to become chief executive in 2022, after starting as a commercial director in 2017. His earlier career includes a three-year period at Wates Construction, following a nearly 13-year tenure at Caddick Construction. At Caddick, Powell progressed from project quantity surveyor to commercial manager, highlighting his rich experience within the construction industry.
According to Tim Roberts, chief executive of Henry Boot, Powell’s appointment is instrumental for the company’s future growth. Roberts articulated his enthusiasm for Powell’s vision, stating, “I’m pleased to welcome Lee to the Henry Boot Construction business, who joins us with a proven track record and extensive industry experience. Lee’s passion for delivering high-quality spaces and places aligns with what Henry Boot is all about – creating impact.” This reflects a strategic move to revitalise and expand the firm’s business operations.
Lee Powell has expressed his eagerness to join Henry Boot, recognising the company’s esteemed legacy and reputation for quality. Powell stated: “Henry Boot Construction has a fantastic legacy and an excellent reputation for quality. I am excited to join the team in January. At a time when our sector still faces significant challenges, we now have a new government who have put economic growth at the heart of their plans, and as a trusted construction contractor, we are ready to contribute towards this.” Powell’s focus will be on ensuring customer satisfaction, health, and safety, alongside broadening Henry Boot’s appeal to a wider clientele.
Tony Shaw has spoken positively about his decision to retire after nearly four decades at Henry Boot, describing it as the right time to step down and make way for new direction in the business’s leadership. Shaw commented: “After spending nearly 40 years of my working life at Henry Boot Construction, now is the right time for me to step down as managing director. This will allow for a new approach in the management and direction of the business and I extend my best wishes to Lee Powell in his new position.” With Powell’s arrival, Henry Boot anticipates a continued tradition of excellence, building upon a significant turnover of £101m in 2022.
Lee Powell’s appointment heralds a new chapter for Henry Boot Construction, promising continued growth and innovation.
