Global engineering and sustainability consultancy appoints Richard Linacre and Ivana Poparic as Directors in its Life Sciences and Pharmaceuticals teams Ramboll has today announced the hires of Richard Linacre as Director (Pharmaceuticals) and Ivana Poparic as Director (Business Development & Strategic Advisory). Richard and Ivana bring complementary expertise that further strengthens Ramboll’s presence across the UK Life Science and Pharmaceuticals market, following a number of recent wins for the business.  With over 30 years of engineering experience, Richard brings a wealth of market insight and pharma-sector expertise, underpinned by a proven track record in building trusted client partnerships, leading complex programmes and shaping high-quality outcomes across pharmaceutical and life science environments. In his role Richard will be focusing on co-ordinating Ramboll’s multi-disciplinary capabilities on projects across Life Sciences and Pharmaceuticals. This will include work both in the UK and internationally across the sector, delivering innovation with a focus on design excellence and sustainability. As Business Development & Strategic Advisory Director, Ivana will leverage Ramboll’s multidisciplinary expertise to support the delivery of complex projects and provide strategic counsel to clients across the life sciences sector. Having previously held positions at King’s College London, The National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) and MedCity, Ivana is a highly respected scientist and a well-known expert in life sciences infrastructure development and ecosystems. She will bring considerable strategic advisory experience and a strong track record to Ramboll, having built partnerships across industry, investors, government, academia and real estate to support Ramboll’s growth and innovation. Together these appointments further enhance Ramboll’s ability to create new opportunities for collaboration and growth, enhance the company’s offering, and reinforce its commitment to supporting its clients across the Life Science and Pharmaceutical sector. Commenting on the appointments, Jason Layfield, Executive Director – Buildings, said: “We are delighted to be welcoming Richard and Ivana to Ramboll. Both arrive with a well-earned reputation for excellence in their fields and a proven track record of delivering commercial success. They will provide an important focal point and leadership for our pharmaceutical and life sciences teams in the UK. I am looking forward to working closely alongside them both.” Richard Linacre, Director – Pharmaceuticals added: “Ramboll’s track-record in delivering the highest quality of work speaks for itself and I’m excited to be joining a company that shares my commitment to providing across-the-board excellence to clients. I have been impressed by Ramboll’s expertise, collaborative approach and use of creativity to develop novel solutions, which provide real impact for projects of significant scale and the breadth in the sector. It’s a timely moment to be joining with both life sciences and the business experiencing growth and I’m glad to be here to help maximise the opportunity.” Ivana Poparic, Director Business Development & Strategic Advisory – said: “I am pleased to be joining Ramboll to help deliver further growth in life sciences and pharma in the UK. Ramboll already has a first-class reputation in this space, which is part of what made me so keen to take on this role. I have seen firsthand both the challenges and opportunities for life sciences development in the UK and Ramboll’s ability to exceed expectations to meet them through its holistic approach. I’m looking forward to delivering positive outcomes for our life sciences clients as their sustainable partner for change.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Railpen, manager of the around £36bn railways pension scheme in the UK, has appointed Paul Hunt, a seasoned senior asset manager with multi-sector experience, to lead the asset management of its 1.9 million sq ft Innovation Cluster in Cambridge. Railpen’s Innovation Cluster is a geographical eco-system comprising real estate, direct investments into innovation companies, and strategic partnerships, with the goal of creating sustainable economic and social growth for the UK at scale and pace, while also delivering long-term returns to its members. Paul has almost 30 years’ experience in real estate portfolio, asset, and development management in the UK, Europe and Australia, spanning offices, retail, industrial and logistics, residential and hospitality assets.  He joins from Gaw Capital Advisors, where he was Head of UK Portfolio and a Senior Director, and has also worked at Hutchinson Property Group and Landsec, the latter on its London estate. Paul is the latest in a series of strategic hires by Railpen for its Innovation Cluster.  Under the leadership of Railpen’s Head of Property, Matthew Howard, it has created a senior team with the skills, experience and network to drive the successful delivery of the Cluster.  The team also includes Emma Goodfood, consultant Head of Leasing, Parminder Singh, Development Director, and Neil Crawford, Senior Development Manager, all of whom have joined Railpen in the last 18 months. Commenting on Paul Hunt’s appointment, Matthew Howard, Head of Property at Railpen, said: “Railpen is one of the UK’s most active investor-developers, and nowhere better exemplifies this than our Cambridge Innovation Cluster.  Our ambition is bold, but with the appointment of Paul Hunt alongside Emma Goodford, Parminder Singh and Neil Crawford, we have the very best combination of expertise, experience and drive to deliver our vision.” Paul Hunt, Head of Cambridge at Railpen, added: “This was a hugely attractive opportunity to work on a portfolio that has longevity, sustainability, and is truly customer and neighbour focused.  Railpen is fully committed to building on its existing portfolio, making it even more successful by aligning our ambitions with those of Cambridge as a wider eco-system.  I have joined a very strong but lean team that has a great mixture of talent and capability.  Together, we are going to deliver market-defining assets and environments that will make a lasting positive contribution to our members, Cambridge, and the UK more widely.” Railpen’s Cambridge Innovation Cluster comprises 11 high-quality assets conceived to reflect existing and emerging occupier demands, including offices, life sciences and innovation space.  Mill Yard, its unique 180,000 sq ft mixed-use campus adjacent to the station completes in Q1 2027, with Botanic Place, its 325,000 sq ft global standard headquarters development at the heart of Cambridge’s commercial core, completing in Q1 2028.  Railpen also has consent for a 112,000 sq ft Grade A office development at 230 Newmarket Road, and the one million sq ft Beehive innovation hub on an adjoining site. These are complemented by existing offices on Station Road, the Bracks solar farm to the north of the city, and direct investments in several Cambridge-based innovation businesses.  Railpen is also an active contributor to several strategic partnerships in Cambridge, with Anna Rule, Director of Real Assets and Private Markets, serving on Innovate Cambridge’s Innovation Council and the Cambridge-Manchester Innovation Partnership’s board.  Railpen has also created the Glasshouse, a hub for innovators and entrepreneurs in Botanic House, in partnership with Innovate Cambridge. Beyond Cambridge, Railpen is underway with a major refurbishment and development program of its 600,000 sq ft of commercial space in London and Birmingham, focused on repositioning existing assets to meet the flight-to-quality demand from occupiers.  In total, it has over three million sq ft of space under construction or consented, making it one of the most active investor-developers in the property sector. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

International real estate advisor Savills has strengthened its Property Management division with the appointment of Adam De Acetis as a director. Adam will join the division’s portfolio team, where he will play a key role in formalising and expanding its approach to private client work. Adam brings significant experience in property management, strategic asset management, lease advisory and real estate development. He has worked with a range of institutional and private clients, producing and delivering asset business plans, leading value add initiatives and collaborating with landlords, occupiers and other stakeholders to deliver strategic objectives. Adam will focus on formalising and expanding the team’s approach to private client work, primarily exploring opportunities with property companies, private property investors, Family Office and high-net-worth individuals. He will enhance the existing team and support its continued growth by helping clients develop and implement effective portfolio and property level strategies. John Redfern, Head of UK Business Space, Property Management at Savills, comments: “Adam brings extensive experience of working closely with a range of property owners and investors to improve portfolio performance. His commercial approach and understanding of private clients will bring great value to our clients and team, while helping us to identify and develop new opportunities for continued growth. We are delighted to welcome him to Savills.” Adam De Acetis, Director, Savills Property Management, adds: “I am excited to be joining Savills and the opportunities to work with colleagues across the business to develop strategies that add value, address challenges and help clients maximise the performance of their assets and portfolios.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Valleys to Coast Group announces the appointment of James O’Connor as its new Executive Director of Finance and Transformation. James’s appointment comes at an important moment for the group as it launches its new Corporate Plan for 2026–2031 and enters an exciting period of growth. James joins from Codi Group, where he served as Director of Corporate Finance and Sustainability, bringing a wealth of leadership experience and expertise in strategic change, financial governance, and organisational improvement. In his new role, James will oversee the group’s financial strategy and lead a transformation agenda. He will focus on building financial strength, modernising systems, and ensuring resources are used effectively to enable reinvestment into Valleys to Coast’s homes and communities. His arrival aligns with the launch of the group’s Corporate Plan 2026–2031, which sets out an ambitious strategy to move from traditional ways of working to progressive, data-driven practices. By expanding its reach across South Wales and launching a new development subsidiary, Sylfaen, Valleys to Coast Group is strengthening its financial foundation to deliver more high-quality, safe, warm, and dry homes. Joanne Oak, Group Chief Executive, said:”We are thrilled to welcome James to our team. We are entering a transformative chapter as we roll out our new Corporate Plan. James brings experience, energy, and fresh thinking that will help us build our financial strength. Most importantly, he shares our wholehearted commitment to our people and to making a lasting, positive difference in the communities we serve.” James O’Connor said:”I am delighted to be joining Valleys to Coast Group at such an exciting time. Their ambition has a clear, heartfelt commitment to making a positive difference in people’s lives and communities. I look forward to working alongside the team to build on their strong foundations, drive innovation, and help guide the organisation through its next chapter of growth and service excellence.” As Valleys to Coast Group prepares to move its new office to Wyndham House in the heart of Bridgend town centre, James’s leadership will be central to guiding the team through this period of growth and positive change.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Building performance and M&E engineering specialist Mesh has appointed Jen Wallace as Managing Director to lead the business in the next phase of its growth. Jen joined Mesh in 2019 as one of the company’s first employees, progressing from a junior renewable energy consultant to Team Lead, before being appointed Operations Director in 2022. Over the past seven years, she has played a pivotal role in developing the systems, processes and culture that underpin all of Mesh’s services in the construction sector. Her appointment comes as Mesh continues to broaden its work across the built environment, combining building physics analysis with building services design to help clients and developers to improve the energy efficiency of new housing, public and commercial buildings. In her new role as Managing Director, Jen now takes responsibility for leading operations, people and culture, sales and marketing, and the day-to-day running of the business. Commenting on this appointment, Jen said: “This is an incredibly exciting time to be working in building engineering and the opportunities for Mesh across the built environment are considerable. Developers need to respond to increasingly demanding legislative requirements around energy performance, carbon emissions and overheating caused by a changing climate. Building owners are facing similar challenges which require improving and decarbonising existing facilities to drive down energy costs, transition away from fossil fuels, and maintain occupier comfort. Digital technology and automation continue to advance apace. We are developing and applying multiple tools to automate the more repeatable data processes to enable our engineers to focus their expertise where it adds the most value to our customers. Mesh has evolved enormously since I joined the business. However, what has remained consistent is our focus on understanding what clients are trying to achieve and using data-led evidence to help them make better decisions. Our approach is to bring together building physics and M&E engineering rather than looking at individual issues in isolation. This means we can quantify the impact of different energy strategies and assess the implications on running costs and carbon emissions to achieve the right balance of what is practical and deliverable for every project. I am extremely proud of the people and culture we have built at Mesh. There is a genuinely shared commitment to improving the sustainability of buildings and the wider environment that we live and work in. I am looking forward to leading the next stage of the business.” Doug Johnson, Founding Director of Mesh: “The opportunities ahead are significant. Whether we are working with architects to create better-performing buildings, pushing the boundaries of sustainable design and engineering, or helping organisations develop practical strategies to decarbonise existing facilities, property managers, architects and developers increasingly need joined-up engineering advice backed by robust analysis to inform decision making. Jen has had a very positive impact on Mesh’s growth. She joined us at a very early stage having worked in the charitable and local authority sectors. She has helped to build much of the operational infrastructure that has enabled Mesh to develop its customer base and services – and maintain a high level of repeat business. Jen understands the commercial and operational realities and challenges our clients face. Her progression from energy consultant to Managing Director reflects her talent as a business leader in the built environment. I am delighted that she has accepted this role to lead Mesh through its next phase.” Mesh’s services have continued to broaden as Building Regulations have become more stringent and renewable energy technologies have advanced. Its work now ranges from energy strategies and overheating analysis, operational and embodied carbon assessments, compliance and planning support, through to M&E design, tender specifications and strategies for decarbonising existing buildings. Mesh also has a number of niche specialisms – working with architects and planning consultants on National Planning Policy Framework HO11 projects that demand innovation and excellence in sustainability and design; developing energy strategies for complex estates and building portfolios needing to reduce energy consumption and accelerate decarbonisation, and embodied carbon analysis such as for M5 planning policy for replacement buildings. A key priority under Jen’s leadership will be the continued development of digital systems and automation for repetitive tasks and data collection to allow Mesh’s engineers to maximise their time on strategic analysis, problem solving, and developing practical, evidence-based solutions for clients. For more information, see www.mesh-energy.com or email info@mesh-energy.com.   Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Global law firm Norton Rose Fulbright has strengthened its real estate practice in London with the appointment of Simon Woodcock as a partner. Simon joins from Goodwin Procter. He advises on a broad range of transactional real estate matters, including direct and indirect investment, landlord and tenant matters, development and asset management. His practice spans multiple asset classes, including office, retail, student accommodation, PRS and industrial. Simon has significant experience advising investors, developers, asset and fund managers, and financial institutions on high-value UK and pan-European transactions. He brings strong relationships across the real estate sector and a track record of delivering on complex mandates. His appointment further enhances Norton Rose Fulbright’s real estate offering and supports the firm’s continued growth across key sectors and markets. David Hawkins, partner at Norton Rose Fulbright, commented: “Simon is a highly regarded real estate lawyer with an impressive track record advising on major UK and European transactions. His experience, market reputation and client relationships make him an excellent addition to our team.” Simon Woodcock commented: “Norton Rose Fulbright’s international platform and sector strengths provide a compelling proposition for clients operating in today’s market. I’m excited to join the team and look forward to helping clients deliver their most important real estate projects and investments.” Simon’s appointment forms part of Norton Rose Fulbright’s continued investment in its real estate practice and reinforces the firm’s ability to support leading investors, developers and institutions on complex transactions.  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Midlands contractor, G F Tomlinson,has bolstered its team with the appointment of Glenn Slater as Business Development Manager. Glenn joins G F Tomlinson with 31 years’ experience in business development within the construction industry, with a focus on Public Sector Frameworks, and his primary focus will be to drive new business generation and growth for the construction firm across the Midlands and South Yorkshire, while promoting Public Sector Frameworks. He will support Head of Business Development, Les Needham, and will nurture new and existing client relationships, as well as supporting other teams across the business. A committee member for the Forum for the Build Environment East Midlands, Glenn also holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Marketing and Management and a Cambridge University Institute for Sustainable Leadership certificate in Business and Climate Change: Towards Net Zero Emissions. On his new position and joining G F Tomlinson, Glenn said: “I have always thoroughly enjoyed working with construction businesses to positively contribute to their growth and development. I am pleased to be given the opportunity to continue this passion with G F Tomlinson working alongside Les Needham and building our presence across the Midlands and South Yorkshire. “I’m looking forward to using my decades of experience in this industry to bring a fresh perspective to a long-established business, contributing to the company’s ongoing success.” Andy Sewards, Chairman at G F Tomlinson, said: “It’s great to have someone of Glenn’s calibre on board. His appointment is pivotal as we embark on the next phase of our company’s growth, and we’re delighted to welcome him to the business development team with Les Needham. Glenn’s invaluable experience and sector knowledge will be key for the whole business, and for driving our initiatives forward.”  Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Workman LLP has strengthened its retail and leisure property management business with the appointment of Matthew Gioia as a partner, marking his return to the firm where he began his property career 16 years ago. Gioia will co-lead Workman’s London retail and leisure team alongside partner Chris Church, with responsibility for a number of key client relationships as the property specialist continues to invest in its retail and leisure capabilities. The appointment brings Gioia back to Workman following extensive experience across the UK commercial property sector. He originally joined the company’s Manchester office through its graduate scheme before moving to Savills, where he spent four years. He subsequently joined MAPP and has spent the past eight years with the business, helping to lead its retail team and developing significant experience in the management of retail property and client portfolios. His return comes at an important time for the retail and leisure property market, with owners and asset managers increasingly focused on creating well-managed, commercially resilient destinations capable of responding to changing occupier and customer requirements. Gareth Soar, partner at Workman LLP, said: “Matthew joins a team that’s already delivering great results for our retail and leisure clients, and he brings a wealth of experience in the sector to the role. “His appointment reflects our continued investment in specialist talent, and I’m confident he’ll play a key part in helping the team grow and continue to deliver a great service for our clients.” Gioia added: “It’s great to be back at Workman. The firm has grown considerably since I left, but that focus on doing things properly is still very much at the heart of how the team works. “I’m looking forward to working alongside Chris and the wider team, and to putting my experience to work for our clients.” The appointment adds further senior-level expertise to Workman’s retail and leisure property management operation, with Gioia’s experience across different property businesses providing a strong platform to support existing clients and the team’s future growth. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Luceco Group, the leading designer and manufacturer of residential and commercial electrification products and systems, has announced the appointment of Dr Thorsten Müller as Chief Executive Officer, with effect from 1 September 2026.  Thorsten brings extensive experience leading global industrial technology businesses, across lighting, electrification and energy management sectors. Most recently, he was Divisional Chief Executive in the Safety Sector at Halma plc. Prior to joining Halma in 2022, he held senior leadership roles at ABB, Osram and Bosch. Giles Brand, Chair of Luceco, said: “We are thrilled that Thorsten will be joining Luceco as Chief Executive Officer. Thorsten has a proven track record of delivering growth and innovation at industry leading technology companies serving the lighting, electrification and energy management segments. He brings all the necessary skills and experience to drive the continued execution of our strategy.” Dr Thorsten Müller commented: “I am truly excited to be joining Luceco as Chief Executive. Luceco is a business of real quality, and I am grateful for the opportunity to build on the strong foundations that the Luceco team have built. Luceco’s premier brands, market-leading positions and exceptional people give me firm confidence in the core of the business, while the energy transition offers significant further upside that Luceco is exceptionally well placed to capture.” The appointment comes at a time of continued positive momentum for Luceco, with the Group reporting a strong performance for H1 2026. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals

Yorkshire housebuilder Newett Homes has appointed Zoe Wheatley as sales and marketing director, recognising the significant contribution she has made since joining the business. With 22 years of industry experience, Zoe began her career as a sales executive before progressing through a range of senior roles. She joined the Wetherby-based developer as sales and marketing manager in May 2025 and was promoted to head of sales in August the same year. As sales and marketing director, she will now lead the company’s sales and marketing strategy, driving the sales team to achieve its targets and support the wider objectives of the business. Zoe’s responsibilities also include raising brand awareness of Newett Homes’ product and its developments, overseeing all aspects of marketing, and ensuring customers continue to receive an exceptional level of service. Commenting on her new position, Zoe, said: “Newett Homes is an ambitious organisation with a fantastic product, and I’m delighted to have been recognised for my part in driving its success. “I am excited to build on our strengths, raise standards across sales and marketing, and help the business achieve its growth plans while continuing to enhance the brand and customer experience.” Established in 2017, Newett Homes is an award-winning housebuilder dedicated to delivering quality-led homes in hand-picked locations. Employing over 70 people, the business currently has 10 active developments, supported by a growing land pipeline. In April the housebuilder marked a significant step in its growth strategy by acquiring a seven-acre greenfield site in Kirton in Lindsey, Lincolnshire, which is its first development site outside Yorkshire. In March 2026, it was awarded its first five-star rating from the Home Builders Federation (HBF) recognising the businesses continued commitment to excellence in build quality and outstanding customer experience. Newett Homes chief executive, Will Newett, said: “Zoe has made a considerable impact on the business since joining us and has demonstrated the leadership, expertise and drive needed to take our sales and marketing function forward. “Her commitment to developing the team, strengthening our brand and delivering an outstanding experience for our customers will be invaluable as we continue to expand and I look forward to working closely with her as we deliver the next stage of our growth plans.” For more information about Newett Homes visit https://newetthomes.co.uk/ Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals