Henry Boot Construction has made a significant leadership change with the appointment of Lee Powell as its new managing director.
- Lee Powell transitions from his role as CEO at GMI Construction, bringing 28 years of industry experience.
- Powell’s appointment is part of Henry Boot’s strategic efforts to restore and grow the business following a challenging year.
- Outgoing MD Tony Shaw is set to depart at the end of the year, making way for fresh leadership.
- The construction firm faced profit and turnover declines last year due to material shortages impacting major projects.
Henry Boot Construction has appointed Lee Powell, the former CEO of GMI Construction, as its incoming managing director, a decision reflecting the company’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team. With a career spanning 28 years, Powell has demonstrated significant expertise in the construction industry, having worked with reputable firms such as Wates Construction and Caddick Construction. His tenure at GMI saw him ascend to the role of managing director for Yorkshire before taking on the chief executive role, where he effectively led the business for more than three years.
Powell’s entry into Henry Boot is strategically timed as the company aims to overcome recent financial setbacks. The departing managing director, Tony Shaw, will leave the position at the year’s end, making room for Powell’s new vision and leadership approach. Powell’s appointment underscores Henry Boot’s aim to ‘restore and grow the business,’ aligning with the company’s broader objectives of creating impactful spaces and places. Henry Boot’s chief executive, Tim Roberts, expressed confidence in Powell’s ability to continue building the firm’s legacy of delivering high-quality projects.
The change in leadership comes as Henry Boot reported a ‘challenging year’ in 2023, with noted declines in both profit and turnover. These financial hurdles were primarily due to material shortages that disrupted the progress of two significant projects: the £40m Kangaroo Works build-to-rent development and the £42m Heart of the City mixed-use scheme, both located in Sheffield. These difficulties in material acquisition exemplify the broader industry challenges that Henry Boot, like many construction firms, must navigate moving forward.
Lee Powell is set to take the helm in January 2025 and has articulated his vision for Henry Boot, emphasizing the company’s dedication to its people, health and safety, and customer satisfaction. His focus on establishing a ‘new impetus’ within the business envisions appealing to a broader customer base and maintaining the excellence for which Henry Boot is known. By harnessing Powell’s leadership, the firm seeks to strengthen its service offering and adapt to changing market conditions, ensuring long-term business sustainability.
Henry Boot Construction is poised for renewed growth and success under Lee Powell’s leadership.
