People: New MD at Henry Boot Developments; Founder to become CEO at listed firm; and more

Henry Boot Developments (HBD) has appointed Ed Hutchinson as Managing Director following 14 years with the business.

Hutchinson joined HBD in 2004 as a Project Manager and was appointed a Board Director eight years later. He replaces David Anderson, who announced his resignation in July. To ensure a smooth handover, he will work closely with Anderson during the coming months prior to his departure.

John Sutcliffe, CEO of Henry Boot, said: “Ed has been an intrinsic part of HBD’s executive team for many years now, during which time he has made a tremendous contribution to the business and will continue to do so in his new role.

“Ed inherits a robust business, backed by a talented and experienced team of senior directors who have worked together for many years.  Under Ed’s leadership they will continue to deliver great schemes for our clients into the future.”

Hutchinson said: “The business is in great shape. Having been with HBD for 14 years, six of those as a Director, it’s a business I know incredibly well, and I look forward to picking up the mantle and continuing to focus on growing what is an impressive and diverse development pipeline.”

HBD, the development arm of Henry Boot, is currently working with a commercial development pipeline of over £1bn, spanning the UK. In its interim results announcement last week, the Group revealed a pre-tax profit of £26.2m for the six months to 30 June 2018, up from £22.6m a year earlier. Revenue for the period is also up, while net debt has fallen by 58%.

:::

Paragon Entertainment, the York-based attractions design, production and fit-out business, has announced that its chief executive John Dobson has decided to leave the Company with effect from 28 February 2019.   

The board has appointed Mark Pyrah, Paragon’s founder, as chief executive officer.  Dobson will work on an orderly handover with Pyrah, the listed firm said in an announcement this morning.

The company has commenced a recruitment initiative to strengthen the senior management team.  Further announcements will be made in due course.

Mark Taylor, Non-Executive Chairman, said: “John joined Paragon to introduce process and rigour to the business.  I would like to thank John for his contribution and stewardship of Paragon in providing a platform for recovery.  With Mark Pyrah’s enormous experience and the support of Paragon’s management team and the board, I am confident that the Company remains in good hands.”