The chief executive of John Sisk & Son will lead the industry body as it marks its 10th anniversary
Build UK, the leading representative body for the UK construction industry, has appointed Paul Brown as its new chair.
Mr Brown, who is chief executive of John Sisk & Son, takes over from Julie White, managing director of D-Drill & Sawing, who has led the organisation for the past two years.
The appointment was confirmed at Build UK’s annual general meeting, where members also heard from the Chief Secretary to the Treasury, James Murray MP, who outlined the government’s plans to deliver £725bn of economic and social infrastructure over the next decade.
Mr Brown, a civil engineer with more than 25 years of leadership experience, has served as vice chair of Build UK since joining the board in 2022.
Speaking after his appointment, he 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.”
He added that Build UK had “a vital role to play” in supporting these priorities and said he looked forward to working with members across the supply chain to demonstrate construction’s positive impact on the economy and communities.
Build UK chief executive Suzannah Nichol OBE welcomed the appointment, saying Mr Brown’s “leadership and experience will be invaluable as we navigate the opportunities and challenges ahead”.
She thanked Ms White for her “outstanding contribution” over the past two years and her support in representing the industry since first being elected to the board a decade ago.
The organisation has also appointed two new board members: Katy Dowding, President and Chief Executive of Skanska, and Lee Rowswell from GKR Scaffolding.
Build UK brings together clients, contractors, trade associations and other organisations committed to industry collaboration to promote the value of construction and drive change across the sector.
