Wates veteran to retire amid major restructure

Wates has announced the planned departure of an industry veteran from the business – amid plans for a major restructure as the contractor seeks to capitalise on recent success.  

Wates Construction will expand to incorporate Smartspace which is currently part of the Property Services division, to strengthen its fit-out offer. 

SES Engineering Services will also become its own business in January next year, alongside the Construction, Residential, Developments and Property Services divisions. 

Rob Clifford, current managing director of SES, will be promoted to executive MD on 1 July. 

SES has grown significantly in recent years, with turnover up 73 per cent to £299 million and pre-tax profit nearly doubling to £5.8 million last year.   

CEO Eoghan O’Lionaird said the move would stand the group in “good stead” to continue its record-breaking growth. 

It comes as Paul Chandler announced his intention to retire at the end of the year, following a 42-year career in construction. 

Chandler has been executive managing director of Wates Construction since 2017 and a board member since 2018. 

Under his leadership, Construction has delivered year-on-year growth, increasing turnover from £700 million in 2015 to £1.3 billion last year. 

Incumbent construction managing director Steff Battle, who has been at Wates since 1995, will succeed Chandler as executive MD, joining the Executive Committee on 1 July. 

Chandler said: “It has been a privilege to be part of the Wates success for the last eight years and an honour to lead Wates Construction Group through a period of successful profitable growth. 

“Over the last 42 years I have watched the industry transform significantly. I have had the pleasure of building some deep relationships with progressive customers and partners that have driven this change. 

“I know I am leaving the business in safe hands and look forward to seeing Wates continue to thrive.  

“The business’ growth and success would not be possible without its people.  

“Wates is a company of outstanding, talented people and I would like to thank all my colleagues who have made the past eight years so rewarding.” 

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