John Sisk & Son’s CEO, Paul Brown, has been appointed as Build UK’s new chair.
He succeeds Julie White, managing director of drilling equipment company D-Drill & Sawing, who steps down after two years in the post.
Brown was previously vice-chair of Build UK after joining the board in 2022. With a background in civil engineering, the industry representative body said his appointment reflects Build UK’s “central role in driving forward the industry priorities that support all sectors within UK construction”.
Build UK has also appointed two new board members, Skanska’s president and CEO, Katy Dowding, and Lee Rowswell from GKR Scaffolding, a company member of the National Access & Scaffolding Confederation.
The appointments were confirmed at Build UK’s AGM on 23 September, where the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, James Murray MP, spoke about the government’s plans to deliver £725bn of economic and social infrastructure over the next decade as set out in its 10-Year Infrastructure Strategy.
‘A huge privilege’
Brown said: “Taking on the role of Build UK chair at such a pivotal time for our industry is a huge privilege. Construction is taking an increasingly integrated approach to infrastructure planning, improving the way we deliver projects, and driving forward the highest standards of building safety.
“Build UK has a vital role to play in supporting these priorities, and I look forward to working with members across the supply chain to deliver change and demonstrate the positive impact of construction on the economy and local communities across the UK.”
Build UK’s chief executive, Suzannah Nichol OBE, said: “We are delighted to have Paul as our new chair. By bringing the whole industry together around the same table, Build UK has demonstrated that it can successfully respond to the issues we face, such as the new building safety regime, and Paul’s leadership and experience will be invaluable as we navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead.
“I would also like to thank Julie for her outstanding contribution over the past two years and for all her support in representing the industry since she was first elected to the board 10 years ago.”
