Lee Powell has officially taken on the role of managing director at Henry Boot Construction, the Yorkshire-based contractor currently leading several key projects, including the £36 million redevelopment of Rotherham Markets.

Powell, formerly the chief executive of GMI Construction, brings 28 years of experience in the construction industry. During his career, he has held senior roles at Wates and Caddick and played a pivotal role in GMI’s expansion in the Midlands and the North of England, working with high-profile clients such as Muse, Bruntwood, and Siemens.

HBC has also strengthened its leadership team with recent appointments. James Smith has joined as finance director, and Chris Weathers, with over 25 years of experience in the construction industry, has been named commercial director. Both Smith and Weathers share professional connections with Powell, having worked at companies like GMI, Wates, and Caddick.

As the new MD, Powell aims to grow HBC’s order book, expand into new sectors, and strengthen the company’s position in the construction industry.

“Joining a highly reputable and long-standing business such as Henry Boot Construction was an opportunity I couldn’t miss, and I look forward to working with a very talented and dedicated team," said Powell. "The business has fantastic values and an outstanding reputation for quality. We will be looking to build on these strong foundations and continue expanding our reach further into the East Midlands and the northeast of England.

“We’ll also be diversifying our scope – creating a balanced private sector portfolio to complement our heritage in the public sector, alongside expanding into additional sectors such as purpose-built student accommodation.

“As we face a rapidly changing construction environment, my focus will be on delivering exceptional outcomes for our clients, driving sustainable growth, and ensuring we remain a trusted partner for both the public and private sectors.

“We will also strive to be a leading example in proactive compliance under the Building Safety Act, while also championing carbon reduction and wider sustainability initiatives.”

Tim Roberts, chief executive of Henry Boot, expressed confidence in Powell’s leadership, saying, “Lee’s deep passion for delivering high-quality projects aligns perfectly with our values and vision for the business.”