GMI Construction Group has paid a touching last tribute to “much-valued friend and colleague”, Claire Preston, who has sadly passed away.
It is understood Claire joined the company almost three years ago as Head of Responsible Business, where she had a “profound impact” on the wider construction industry by driving positive change through social value, generating more than £250 million for communities in the past year alone.
Many mourners left heartfelt tributes to Claire’s memory, with one writing she was a wonderful lady who was passionate about making people’s lives better, adding: “She certainly leaves a great legacy with many, many people whose lives she touched.”
Another wrote Claire was “a true champion and pioneer in social value”, who enriched and empowered everyone she encountered.
GMI wrote her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched – both within the construction industry and the communities she cared so deeply about.
It added Claire’s work did not simply elevate GMI as a business but also pushed the wider construction industry to think bigger and act with greater responsibility.
In a public notice, GMI wrote: “It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of our much-valued friend and colleague, Claire Preston. Claire [..] joined us nearly three years ago as Head of Responsible Business, a role she embraced with extraordinary passion and determination.
“From the moment she arrived, Claire’s vision and energy reshaped not only our business but had a profound impact on the wider construction industry and the communities we serve. Her influence extended far beyond GMI, setting a new benchmark for how construction companies can drive positive change through social value.
“Claire’s relentless dedication opened the eyes of many to the immense potential for making a difference. Under her leadership, over £250 million in social value was delivered in the past year alone. Through her work, Claire showed the entire industry how impactful construction could be when it comes to transforming lives and improving communities.
“Her most significant achievement was the launch of the ‘Construction Cares’ programme in 2022, which has since become a model across the industry. Through this initiative, Claire and her team enhanced the lives of over 80 care-experienced individuals.
“From the installation of Bleed Kits on sites to GMI DIY Workshops and Constructive Kickabout sessions for care leavers, Claire’s influence is felt far and wide. The programme’s national recognition at the Construction News Awards this year is a testament to her remarkable work.
“Claire also forged partnerships with numerous organisations, helping position GMI as a leader in critical initiatives like the Care Leaver Covenant, the 5% Club, and the Armed Forces Covenant. Her work didn’t just elevate our business but pushed the industry to think bigger and act with greater responsibility.
“Beyond her professional successes, Claire was a compassionate friend, a source of support, and a true champion of people. Her legacy will live on in the countless lives she touched—both within our industry and in the communities, she cared so deeply about. Her influence will be felt for years to come, through the ongoing work of her team and the programmes she passionately championed.
“On behalf of GMI, we extend our heartfelt thanks to Claire for her devotion and lasting contributions. She will be greatly missed, but her legacy will endure. We send our deepest condolences to Claire’s family and friends and offer support to anyone affected by this tragic loss.”
If you have been affected by bereavement, you can find information about understanding and managing grief in this link.
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