Wates has hired a former director of Homes England to strengthen its public sector business.
As head of public sector and national frameworks, Robert Stone will be responsible for supporting relationships with public sector entities and government bodies, as well as strategic sectors such as defence, justice and emergency services.
Stone has more than three decades of experience in the construction industry, both in the public and private sectors, and has led on some of the UK’s most important public sector investment programmes.
In his most recent role as director of technical services for Homes England, he spent five years leading the public body’s team, providing specialist technical advice for housing and regeneration projects.
Stone also spent 12 years working at tier ones, including Balfour Beatty, where he led on the £1bn Eastwick & Sweetwater Regeneration Project, part of the post-Olympic Games redevelopment of the Olympic Park.
Wates said Stone’s appointment will also support the group’s management of strategic national procurement frameworks, including Pagabo, P23, Procure Partnerships Framework and Crown Commercial Services.
Stephen Beechley, group public sector director at Wates Group, said: “The public sector makes up around 70% of our business as a group and will always be a key strategic focus for Wates. Delivering vital social infrastructure and navigating the complexities that this brings requires the best talent, and Robert brings a wealth of experience to our business, working directly for our key customers.
“His expertise reinforces our team’s knowledge and capabilities, and I will be working with him closely as we enhance our existing relationships with government departments, while seeking to strengthen our presence in new sectors.”
