Ecofill Group, the UK-based construction technology company, announced today that Catherine Li has joined as CEO, bringing with her over twenty years of extensive global experience in sustainable development of the built environment, including most recently as CEO of Atkins / SNC Lavalin in Asia Pacific. Ecofill is an award-winning,
NATIONAL real estate consultancy Naismiths has announced the appointment of new managing director, Ben Harwood. Having joined Naismiths in 2017, Ben facilitated the buyout of the business and has since led the restructuring and advisory team. As managing director, Ben is now leading the business as it enters its sixth
Linbrooke Services Ltd (Linbrooke), is pleased to announce the appointment of Will Wilson as Chief Executive Officer. Linbrooke is a leading UK engineering company specialising in the design and integration of multi-sector power and telecom solutions, combined with Rail related signalling, telecoms and power systems and multi sector, multi-discipline consultancy.
The parent company to Baxi and leading manufacturer of smart thermal comfort solutions, BDR Thermea, has appointed Luigi La Morgia as Chief Operating Officer (COO). Luigi will join the Management Board and report directly to CEO Bertrand Schmitt. Luigi brings over 20 years of experience in general management, operations and
Top 10 UK housebuilder Keepmoat, has announced the appointment of Amanda Bishop as Regional Managing Director for the West Midlands. Amanda’s role as Regional Managing Director focuses on implementing new strategies for the West Midlands region, supporting the land acquisition strategy and driving growth in key areas. With previous roles
SPECIALIST retrofit decarbonisation turnkey provider Sustainable Building Services (SBS) has made two new promotions to its board of directors as annual turnover is forecasted to increase to more than £50 million. Steve Roberts and Ian Jones, both regional directors, have joined managing director Gary Lawson, divisional director Mike Easdon and
Leading construction consultant, Currie & Brown, has announced a series of new hires to boost the firm’s technical expertise, and deliver advisory services to lenders and investors across a raft of large-scale PPP projects across the UK and internationally. The new team is made up of Jonathan Wilson, Director, Simon
New leadership team will spearhead company’s core ‘Build’ service Design, fit-out and refurbishment specialist Paramount has strengthened its position in the property sector by adding construction to its set of core services. In a move that “signals the start of an exciting new era”, commercial and residential construction activity will
Modular construction specialist Rollalong has recruited another experienced director to further strengthen its senior team. Keith Woodlock has been appointed as Project Director responsible for main contracts and major works, with a focus on the defence sector and MOD contracts. Keith has many years’ experience in both modular and traditional
A Sales and Marketing Manager is now part of the St Arthur Homes team – a shared ownership provider with developments currently located across Hampshire and Kent. Michelle Robins from Southsea has brought 34 years’ experience working within the property industry to the company, which she joined in November last
Ecofill Group, the UK-based construction technology company, announced today that Catherine Li has joined as CEO, bringing with her over twenty years of extensive global experience in sustainable development of the built environment, including most recently as CEO of Atkins / SNC Lavalin in Asia Pacific. Ecofill is an award-winning, innovative, low-carbon technology and solution for the construction sector that transforms all types of clays & subsoils into aggregate replacement products on-site. It is designed to reduce carbon emissions and other pollutants throughout the construction process, optimising time and cost efficiency while minimising environmental impact. Decarbonisation and sustainability are at the core of the Ecofill circular economy process. Its methodology significantly reduces soil waste to landfill, use of aggregates, and lorry movements. Ecofill’s biofriendly binders can also enable the ground to be easily returned to its original pH level and nutrient status. Dr Nigel Griffiths, Chairman of Ecofill Group and a former UK Construction Minister, said “The board is delighted to welcome Catherine as CEO. Her accomplished career, global market reach, along with her passion for technology and innovation, and decarbonising construction, makes Catherine the ideal person to lead Ecofill Group into our next stage of growth.” “I am thrilled to have this opportunity to join Ecofill Group at this pivotal period in history on the journey to a low carbon economy.” said Catherine Li, CEO. “Studies indicate that approximately 40% of global carbon emissions can be attributed to the built environment and construction sector, and about another 30% to the transport sector. For the UK, achieving net zero by 2050 has become mission critical, and many other countries have also or are looking to set their own targets. Sustainable low-carbon construction is key in the fight against climate change. Technology and innovation will be crucial to this transition. By embracing Ecofill technology and solutions, construction projects can significantly reduce their carbon footprint as well as time and cost. We are proud to be at the forefront of this transformation, providing real opportunities for the industry as a whole. I am honoured to be playing my part in global decarbonisation, and I am looking forward to joining forces with like-minded partners and clients who share the same passion and vision.” For the last two decades, Catherine has developed significant industry knowledge and connectivity spanning the UK and Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East and Africa. Prior to Atkins, she was Global Alliances Leader for Arup. Catherine has been a board member of the China Britain Business Council (CBBC) and the British Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, and was recently Chair of its International Infrastructure Forum. Catherine is a frequent and passionate speaker on industry topics including ‘Delivering large infrastructure at scale and speed’, and ‘The impact of technology and low carbon on infrastructure and investment’. Catherine is an alumna of Harvard Business School, having completed the Advanced Management Programme (AMP). Ecofill is paving the way for a decarbonised future in the construction industry on both local and global scales. Through innovative low carbon solutions, Ecofill empowers construction companies to meet and surpass their sustainability goals. This forward-thinking approach allows customers to align with environmental, social, and governance (ESG) principles, placing them at the forefront of sustainable development. As Ecofill continues to innovate, the company calls on industry leaders, stakeholders, and communities to join it on this transformative journey towards a low-carbon future. More information on Ecofill can be found at www.ecofillgroup.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
NATIONAL real estate consultancy Naismiths has announced the appointment of new managing director, Ben Harwood. Having joined Naismiths in 2017, Ben facilitated the buyout of the business and has since led the restructuring and advisory team. As managing director, Ben is now leading the business as it enters its sixth decade, armed with his extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions as a chartered accountant. Ben said: “The consultancy continues to grow from strength to strength and I see our bright future being intrinsically tied to our sixty years of experience, with the company celebrating this 60-year milestone in 2023. My ambition is to drive the company forward, focusing on evolving our data-led approach, while maintaining our reputation as trusted advisors across project monitoring, building consultancy and restructuring and advisory. “Data really is king when forecasting future projects, so as part of our continued growth, Naismiths is working on delivering greater access to our leading property development information. By fully understanding the key metrics and risk factors, we can use our data to assist property developers, lenders, and other stakeholders to appraise and monitor projects more effectively.” Marcus Higgins, national head of project monitoring at Naismiths said: “Naismiths is marking a significant 60-year milestone this year and with this includes the appointment of Ben as managing director. Ben’s energy, focus and ideas are having a positive impact on the direction of the business, with both the senior and wider teams benefiting from his leadership. We look forward to the next chapter of Naismiths and taking the business to new levels of success.” For more information visit www.naismiths.com and follow www.linkedin.com/company/naismiths-ltd/
Linbrooke Services Ltd (Linbrooke), is pleased to announce the appointment of Will Wilson as Chief Executive Officer. Linbrooke is a leading UK engineering company specialising in the design and integration of multi-sector power and telecom solutions, combined with Rail related signalling, telecoms and power systems and multi sector, multi-discipline consultancy. Lee Hallam, Executive Chairman said: “We are pleased to welcome Will Wilson to Linbrooke and he will lead the company into the next phase of growth, bringing into his new role a wealth of experience in the engineering and rail industries.” Prior to joining Linbrooke, Will held senior leadership positions at a number of global companies including Siemens, Alstom and GE Transportation. He was formerly the CEO of Siemens Mobility in the UK. During his career Will has gained extensive rail and transport experience on an international basis, and has majored in railways, aerospace, traffic and general transportation for over 27 years. With a current personal passion for carbon free transport he is a recognised authority in the sector. On joining Linbrooke as Chief Executive, Will said: “I am delighted to be joining Linbrooke at such an exciting time in its evolution. With many sectors growing especially around the global de-carbonisation agenda we are so well positioned to deliver innovative bespoke solutions as well as growing our unique position within the rail sector as the only multi-tier signalling integrator.” “The company has an outstanding reputation in the industry and a talented team of engineers, project managers and hugely dedicated staff in all areas. We are already building on this strong foundation, continuing to deliver high-quality projects for our clients, while also expanding our capabilities and exploring new growth opportunities. A renewed focus on the customer and delivery will be implemented due to Linbrooke’s culture based upon safety and integrity.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
The parent company to Baxi and leading manufacturer of smart thermal comfort solutions, BDR Thermea, has appointed Luigi La Morgia as Chief Operating Officer (COO). Luigi will join the Management Board and report directly to CEO Bertrand Schmitt. Luigi brings over 20 years of experience in general management, operations and supply chain in large multinationals, including at Ducati, Fiat Powertrain, and most recently Whirlpool, where he served as Vice President Manufacturing and Supply Chain EMEA. In this time, Luigi has been involved in successful company integration processes, supply chain turnaround and world class manufacturing development. In his position as COO, Luigi will be responsible for group-wide procurement, supply chain and manufacturing, to maximise the effectiveness and efficiency of BDR Thermea Group’s operations for its customers. This includes the UK-based customers served by Baxi and its brands, both in the residential and commercial sectors. “I am thrilled to join a company whose values I so strongly identify with,” says Luigi. “As part of its ‘sustainable future’ value, BDR Thermea Group has ambitious plans to lead the energy transition in residential and office buildings. And in line with the Group’s ‘customer focus’ value, I’m looking forward to developing the efficient and effective operations needed to deliver on changing customer demand. I’m a firm believer in ‘one team’, BDR Thermea’s third value. This is how we get things done, showing that teamwork truly makes the difference.” Welcoming Luigi to the Management Board, CEO Bertrand Schmitt says: “To match the robustness of our ambitions, we need strong leadership to guide us in the right direction. We feel very fortunate to have Luigi joining us in the new role of COO, with his wealth of experience helping us to further develop our future-ready operations for the exciting times that lie ahead.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
Top 10 UK housebuilder Keepmoat, has announced the appointment of Amanda Bishop as Regional Managing Director for the West Midlands. Amanda’s role as Regional Managing Director focuses on implementing new strategies for the West Midlands region, supporting the land acquisition strategy and driving growth in key areas. With previous roles at a number of national homebuilders including Crest Nicholson, Amanda brings over 30 years’ experience in the new homes industry to the role. Commenting on her appointment, Amanda said: “Over the past few years the West Midlands has seen significant successes and has grown to become one of Keepmoat’s flagship regions. I am looking forward to bringing my expertise from my time as Keepmoat’s Group Sales Director to the role, and supporting the region with further growth and new opportunities.” Keepmoat West Midlands has seven live developments operating from Staffordshire down to the South West. Flagship partnerships are ongoing with Homes England, Citizen, and Walsall Housing Group. Amanda continues: “These key partnerships have improved access to the property market for families on lower incomes and we’re particularly proud that we have the ability to build and sell new homes utilising the strength of these partnerships and relationships built locally.” The region has secured 1,350 plots over 90 acres of new land to support future developments that drive investment across the region. The West Midlands is active in the land market and is looking to acquire sites for a further 1,000 plots to feed the immediate pipeline. Tim Beale, Group CEO at Keepmoat, added: “I’m delighted that Amanda has been promoted to the role of Regional Managing Director for our West Midlands business, having joined Keepmoat as Sales Director in 2019 and playing a pivotal role in helping to deliver our growth in the region to date. As we look to further expand our presence in the West Midlands, I am confident that Amanda will continue to build on this success, working closely with our public and private sector partners to actively source new opportunities.” Keepmoat is a top 10 UK partnership housebuilder with a track-record of delivering quality homes in regions across the UK. To date, Keepmoat has built over 35,000 homes, transforming brownfield sites into thriving new communities. With around 70% of Keepmoat’s homes being affordable, the housebuilder is working to deliver high-quality, multi-tenure, new homes nationally. Keepmoat has achieved five star builder status in the National Home Builders Federation Award, receiving a rating of at least 90% in the National New Homes Customer Satisfaction Survey. Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professional
SPECIALIST retrofit decarbonisation turnkey provider Sustainable Building Services (SBS) has made two new promotions to its board of directors as annual turnover is forecasted to increase to more than £50 million. Steve Roberts and Ian Jones, both regional directors, have joined managing director Gary Lawson, divisional director Mike Easdon and chairman Derek Horrocks on the now-five-man board. These promotions are two of four senior appointments across the business, with Daniel Owens and Dwayne Jones both stepping into roles as regional operations managers. The changes are integral to a wider restructuring, which sees the creation of five regional management teams to facilitate the healthy stream of work that the business has secured. Regional management will be a fluid concept, with the five regional directors and managers in position responsible for multiple projects across the country at any one time. Holding almost 20 years of experience with the business between them, those recently promoted will be integral in the continued endorsement of excellence, meeting PAS 2035 principles, consistent delivery of high-quality resident engagement, innovation, high-quality whole house retrofit projects, and providing career opportunities within the retrofit sector. Steve Roberts said: “Having progressed through the company, I can safely say that there is opportunity here for those that want to seize it. Not only can we learn a lot from recent success and growth, but we can also influence change too. “At a board level, I look forward to contributing more to the business’ overarching strategy, while at a regional level I will continue to ensure that our pipeline of work is carried out to the highest standard and with the passion we all share for improving living conditions, reducing fuel poverty and the impact of the cost-of-living crisis through the decarbonisation of homes.” “Our clients love working with us because of who we are and what we stand for, which makes us relatable. We’re all an important part of the business, from apprentice to director, and our recent growth is a reflection of this.” Sustainable Building Services was recently crowned Retrofit Contractor of the Year by The Retrofit Academy, and is set to deliver multiple circa £15 million projects awarded funding through the Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund (SHDF) Wave 2. Gary Lawson, managing director at Sustainable Building Services, said: “The recent changes and appointments are proof that you can work your way to the top at Sustainable Building Services and there is no limit to the rewards that success can bring. “Moreover, there is not just one route for doing so. For example, Daniel Owens has risen from quantity surveyor to regional operations manager, which should inspire others who have similar ambitions to grow as individuals and be the deciders in their own destiny.” To discover more about Sustainable Building Service’s mission to decarbonise the UK’s housing stock, visit its website at:www.sustainablebuildinguk.com
Leading construction consultant, Currie & Brown, has announced a series of new hires to boost the firm’s technical expertise, and deliver advisory services to lenders and investors across a raft of large-scale PPP projects across the UK and internationally. The new team is made up of Jonathan Wilson, Director, Simon Bate and Liam Potts, Associate Directors and Andrew Henderson, FM Consultant. The team boasts over 60 years of combined industry experience, across a portfolio of social infrastructure projects ranging from Government Accommodation such as HM Treasury, to major healthcare projects such as the Royal London and St Bartholomew’s Hospital in London and Karolinska Hospital in Stockholm, Sweden. The team will complement Currie & Brown’s existing PPP expertise, with each new member bringing unique and long-standing experience of PPP projects. Their exceptional reputations and skill set in this market will significantly increase Currie & Brown’s contribution to delivering many of these projects across the UK. During the next decade nearly 300 major PFI contracts in the UK covering a range of assets, including hospitals, prisons, and schools, will reach the end of their term. The team’s combined insight and expertise means they will be able to offer support and advice as assets transition back from private sector operation. Beyond the UK, the new team will also bolster Currie & Brown’s capacity to leverage its existing work in the Middle East and expand into Africa, where parent company, Dar Group, is already a major player. Commenting on the appointments, Nick Gray, said: “I am thrilled to welcome Jon, Simon, Liam and Andrew to Currie & Brown. They each possess exceptional skills that will complement our existing capabilities perfectly and help us better position ourselves to support the wave of PPP projects that are rapidly reaching an inflection point. “As a business, we’re in a fantastic position to make a great contribution on a number of important projects. We have a robust strategy in place and a winning team to deliver it.” Jonathan Wilson adds: “I am really pleased to be joining Currie & Brown and that our long-standing team will continue to work together in providing services to clients and projects many of which we are proud to have been associated with for over 20 years. The opportunity to develop Currie & Brown’s capacity, both in the UK PFI market and the wider international PPP sector, presents an exciting challenge which we look forward to.” Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
New leadership team will spearhead company’s core ‘Build’ service Design, fit-out and refurbishment specialist Paramount has strengthened its position in the property sector by adding construction to its set of core services. In a move that “signals the start of an exciting new era”, commercial and residential construction activity will propel Paramount towards the £40-million turnover mark. To drive forward the new ‘Build’ offering, which heralds a new phase in Paramount’s exceptional growth, the company’s leadership team has been boosted by key appointments. Paramount’s board of directors has been bolstered with Paul Thomas in a new post as Construction Director and in conjunction with Commercial Director Dimitri Tsakiris will focus on ‘Build’. Paul Jones has moved into the newly-formed post of Projects Director, to support the ‘Build’ expansion, in addition to ongoing fit-out and refurbishment works carried out by Paramount. They now form part of a senior leadership team alongside Richard Jones, Helen Bartlett and Kevin Mashford. Richard Jones, Paramount Chief Executive Officer, said: “Our move into construction signals the start of an exciting new era for Paramount, as we pursue ambitious aspirations for our dynamic company. “After focusing on high-quality interiors comprising fit-out and refurbishment for more than 30 years, encouraged by our clients, Paramount is broadening horizons with a comprehensive construction service which represents natural progression for our company. “I’m proud of the enviable reputation Paramount has earned across the property market thanks to our brilliant leadership team and in-house expertise that will ensure we strengthen our position at the forefront of the construction sector, based on our commitment to quality and professionalism.” As part of the Cardiff-headquartered company’s new service, Paramount has underlined its ambitions by winning two major contracts, commencing construction work on a £18-million contract on the Tene Living project in Salford, Greater Manchester, and a £3-million social housing scheme in the South Wales town of Porthcawl. The Manchester project is in the middle of a total redevelopment, with Paramount converting former offices into 151 high-end luxury apartments, complete with communal roof terrace, BBQ area and plans for an outdoor cinema, expected to be completed this autumn. The Porthcawl project in mid-Glamorgan, which is expected to be complete in summer 2024, will create 20 EPC ‘A’ flats, with an emphasis placed on energy-efficiency with solar PV, EV charging points and will not contain gas. Paul Thomas, Paramount Construction Director, said: “Our leadership team has the ideal blend of experience and expertise to successfully expand our core offering and place the company on a higher growth trajectory. “That experience and expertise across the company will provide us with the versatility to undertake diverse projects, from complex refurbishments and regeneration schemes to new-build developments, which will see Paramount go from strength to strength.” Dimitri Tsakiris, Paramount Commercial Director (Construction), added: “We have hit the ground running in South Wales and Greater Manchester and all our build projects will be planned with precision, managed tightly and ultimately delivered in partnership with our clients. “We approach every project with the same openness and transparency that has been the cornerstone of Paramount’s success, aiming from day one to establish a collaborative relationship with clients and partners to deliver buildings that not only meet expectations but exceed them.” Paramount, whose turnover currently stands at £38.5 million, employs 61 people who still own a majority shareholding of the business – 51 per cent – following completion of an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT) scheme, in May 2021, a deal which marked a major milestone for Paramount after a period of sustained growth. The company is already well known across Wales and England where it has created high-quality inspirational space for a number of leading companies. These include former Wales and Real Madrid football star Gareth Bale’s Par 59 bars in Cardiff and Bristol, multi-million-pound redevelopment of Hodge House in Cardiff, refurbishment of the Development Bank of Wales HQ, transformation of the landmark 360 Bristol office complex and acclaimed office revamps in Bath for American software company SmartBear and financial services consultancy Altus.
Modular construction specialist Rollalong has recruited another experienced director to further strengthen its senior team. Keith Woodlock has been appointed as Project Director responsible for main contracts and major works, with a focus on the defence sector and MOD contracts. Keith has many years’ experience in both modular and traditional builds and has worked on major projects including the Wave Hotel at Butlins Bognor Regis, 5 Churchill Place in Canary Wharf, and Orchard Plaza in Poole. He has worked in main contracting for large PLCs helping to deliver landmark buildings, offsite solutions and refurbishment schemes nationwide. He is a member of the Chartered Institute of Buildings and the Association of Project Managers and is a certified member of the Certified Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (CIWFM). “I wanted to join Rollalong because they are increasing their turnkey operations, and my skills and experience will help the company to achieve growth in that area,” said Keith. “My role is all about quality and delivery – ensuring that quality is high and continuing to deliver projects on time and on budgets – while providing the rest of the board with information to help the company grow and be successful. “I’ve loved it so far and the wider team are brilliant. I’m really enjoying working with the MD Steve Chivers, who has given me the autonomy to use my initiative and make sure I deliver what’s required in line with Rollalong’s vision and values.” Steve Chivers commented: “We are delighted to welcome Keith, who brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the team. “We’ve recruited Keith to help us ensure that Rollalong’s major works projects are delivered effectively, on time and under budget, for our valued clients, and we’re confident that he will make an important contribution to our business.”Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals
A Sales and Marketing Manager is now part of the St Arthur Homes team – a shared ownership provider with developments currently located across Hampshire and Kent. Michelle Robins from Southsea has brought 34 years’ experience working within the property industry to the company, which she joined in November last year. After a spell working as a Business Development Manager in various conveyancing companies, Michelle decided it was time to get back to her first love – finding people their ideal homes. With time spent within Linden Homes, Bovis and Churchill Retirement, as well as working for an estate agent, Michelle has seen and understands many facets of the housing industry. Michelle said: “I first began my career in the property industry when I was 18 years old, and I’ve never left. There’s something very special about helping someone through one of the biggest purchases of their life – which can be happy or sad, stressful or exciting. For me, I genuinely view it as a privilege. Supporting purchasers, helping them find their perfect property and settle into it, making it a home – once you feel that kind of excitement and responsibility, it’s a hard thing to walk away from. “Coming to St Arthur Homes is my first time with a shared ownership provider, but in many ways we apply the same principles as any housebuilder. We strive to provide the best quality, the best service and the best aftercare. It’s always all about the people – and I’ve found that, often, the harder the journey to home ownership, the greater the reward.” Michelle works remotely most of the time from her home, which is a ten-minute walk from the seaside and just a short drive from St Arthur Homes’ Whiteley Meadows development in Whiteley and spends much of the rest of her working time visiting St Arthur’s other developments. She said: “It’s been very interesting to join St Arthur at this time, when we have so many happy buyers at Whiteley Meadows and I’ve seen a real community form. It’s also been great to get to know the team onsite – as well as in the office. “It feels very much that everyone here has the same goal and ethos. My manager Louise is brilliant to work with and we also have Trin and Mandy in our sales team, we all have the same passion for our individual roles and together as a team and although we all work really hard, there’s time to chat and get to know each other too.” For more information, visit starthurhomes.com Building, Design & Construction Magazine | The Choice of Industry Professionals