Travis Perkins appoints new chief executive
Travis Perkins has appointed the former boss of the Taylor Wimpey construction firm as its new chief executive.
In a statement, the builders merchant said that Pete Redfern will become chief executive on 16 September when Nick Roberts steps down from the role.
With over two decades of leadership, operational and finance experience in the construction sector, Redfern has previously served as a non-executive director of Travis Perkins for nine years and was group chief executive of Taylor Wimpey for 14 years until 2022.
Jez Maiden, Travis Perkins interim chair, said: “Pete brings a combination of deep sector knowledge, operational delivery capability, commercial acumen and listed company expertise.
“Pete joins at an important time for the group as we focus on improving profitability and enhancing cash generation, as well as accelerating changes to our operating model to create a simpler, more efficient business.
“I am confident that, together with Duncan Cooper, chief financial officer, the executive leadership team will accelerate the ongoing transformation of the Group and deliver strong shareholder returns.”
Appointment of chair designate
In a separate announcement, Travis Perkins said that Geoff Drabble will be appointed as a non-executive director of the company with effect from 1 October 2024. He will also be appointed as chair (designate) from the same date and will take up the chair role “as soon as his capacity allows”.
Currently, chair of the Ferguson building materials distribution business and the DS Smith packaging company, he served as a non-executive director of Howden Joinery from 2015 to 2023.
In his executive career, he was group chief executive of the Ashtead international equipment hire company from 2006 to 2019 and previously held senior executive positions in Laird Group and Black and Decker.
Maiden said: “Geoff brings a deep and relevant skill set to the board, particularly with respect to building materials distribution and equipment hire. He has been successful at the most senior executive and non-executive levels, and I am pleased that he is joining us as a non-executive director and chair (designate).
“With Pete Redfern announced as our new chief executive officer and Duncan Cooper recently joining as chief financial officer, we have a strong and experienced board and leadership team to drive value for all our stakeholders.”
