Henry Boot announces CEO transition

UK land, property development, and homebuilding company Henry Boot has announced that Tim Roberts, CEO for the past six years, will step down from the Board later this year.

Edward Hutchinson

Edward Hutchinson, currently interim managing director of Stonebridge Homes, has been appointed as his successor. Roberts will work with Hutchinson to ensure a smooth transition. Further details on the exact timing will be released soon.

Roberts joined Henry Boot in 2020 and oversaw a period of significant transformation. He modernised the business, established the Executive Committee as a strategic leadership team, and refined approaches to strategy, data, and reporting. His tenure saw the simplification of the Group's strategy, including the acquisition of Stonebridge Homes, the divestment of Henry Boot Construction, the relocation of the head office to Sheffield city centre, and a strong focus on the company's responsible business initiatives.

Hutchinson, a chartered surveyor, has a long history with Henry Boot, joining the Group's development business (HBD) in 2004. He became an HBD director in 2012 and its managing director in 2018. As a key member of the Executive Committee for six years, he recently led the integration and improvement plan for Stonebridge Homes as its Interim MD. Hutchinson brings extensive expertise in construction processes, land acquisition, planning, and stakeholder engagement.

Peter Mawson, Chair, said: "During the last six years, Tim has led the business through unprecedented challenges and macroeconomic uncertainty, and delivered significant strategic and operational change. I am delighted to welcome Ed as the next CEO, and pleased that we have been able to appoint an internal candidate as a result of our robust approach to talent management and ongoing succession planning."

Tim Roberts, CEO, commented: “Now is the right time for a leadership transition and I will work with Ed to ensure a smooth handover and wish him and the Company every success for the future."

Ed Hutchinson, CEO designate, added: "Henry Boot has a long and rich history, and it is a privilege to lead the business into its next chapter. The Company has dedicated and passionate people, and I have every confidence that, together, we can drive success for this great business and our customers, alongside delivering excellent returns for our shareholders."

Henry Boot, comprising Hallam Land, HBD, Stonebridge Homes, and Banner Plant, manages a development pipeline of £1.4 bn (€1.65 bn), alongside a £120 mln (€141 mln) investment portfolio.