Quarrying and materials group Breedon Aggregates has appointed industry veteran Pat Ward as its new chief executive.
He is expected to join the group early next year after details of his departure from industry rival Aggregate Industries (AI) are finalised.
Mr Ward took over as CEO of AI in April last year following a long career in the aggregates and construction industries in the UK, US and Middle East.
Shares in Breedon, which has its Scottish headquarters at Ethiebeaton quarry in Angus, were marginally ahead in early trading yesterday after the change was confirmed.
Mr Ward will succeed Simon Vivian who has led Breedon since it was first formed. He will take a non-executive director role on the board.
Mr Ward said he was looking forward to playing his part in the “next leg of Breedon’s journey”.
He added: “I’m delighted to be joining the UK’s largest independent aggregates business, having watched with interest the great progress made by Breedon since 2010.”
The outgoing CEO said it was the right time for a change.
Mr Vivian said: “While moving on is always difficult, I’m convinced now is the right time for me to do so. I’ve known Pat for many years and am delighted he is succeeding me at such an exciting time in Breedon’s development.”
Breedon employs around 700 staff in Scotland and operates 38 quarries, 17 asphalt plants, 36 ready-mixed concrete plants and two concrete block plants north of the border.
It also has a 37.5% stake in Scottish trunk roads operator Bear Scotland.
Chairman Peter Tom said Breedon’s Scottish and English units, led respectively by Alan Mackenzie and Tim Hall, would remain operationally autonomous once Mr Ward was in place.
“Under Pat’s direction, they will retain full operational control of their respective businesses and continue to play a prominent role in the growth and development of the group,” Mr Tom said.
“Simon leaves the company in great shape and in good hands.
“We’re particularly delighted that he will remain with us as a non-executive director, enabling us to continue to take advantage of his experience and counsel.”