Kier Group has announced the appointment of Andrew Davies as Chief Executive with effect from 15 April 2019.

From 2014 to 2018, Mr. Davies was the Chief Executive Officer of Wates Group Limited, the construction, developments and property services group. In October 2017, Mr. Davies was announced as the Chief Executive of Carillion plc but, before he took up the role, Carillion became insolvent in January 2018. Prior to leading Wates, Mr. Davies spent over 28 years with BAE Systems plc, undertaking a range of senior operational and corporate roles, including Group Strategy Director and, latterly, Managing Director of the Maritime Division. Mr. Davies is also a non-executive director of Chemring Group PLC.

Philip Cox, Executive Chairman of Kier, stated:

“Andrew has a strong track record of business leadership and his operational experience across a number of sectors, combined with his strategic approach, make him an excellent fit for Kier. On behalf of the Board, I would like to welcome Andrew to the Group and I look forward to working with him.”

Andrew Davies commented:

“I am delighted to be joining Kier as Chief Executive. Kier has established market-leading positions through developing long-term client relationships and delivering excellent client service. I look forward to leading Kier in consolidating those positions and to bringing a renewed focus on simplifying the Group, improving cashflow generation and reducing net debt, whilst maintaining the Group’s disciplined approach to risk management.”

With effect from 15 April 2019, Philip Cox will resume his role as Non-Executive Chairman.