On the move: the latest East Midlands hires
Contractor Wates has appointed Matt Johnson as regional director for its construction business in the Midlands.
Johnson brings more than 20 years’ experience within the construction industry, most recently as operations director for Wates in the Midlands. Before joining Wates in 2022 Johnson worked as a project director for Lendlease and Balfour Beatty, as well taking up an executive director position for leisure contractor Pulse Design & Build.
His appointment follows Wates’ recent restructure of its construction operations, creating three divisions – North, South and Major Projects.
Dave Saville, managing director at Wates Construction North, said: “The sheer range of projects being planned and delivered makes the Midlands an absolute strategic focus for our business, as we seek to increase our portfolio. The diverse experience that Matt brings reflects this, making him a perfect fit to lead the region and take advantage of the opportunities here.
“He has already proven himself at Wates to be incredibly trusted and respected in both our business and with our customers, and I’m looking forward to working together as we seek to grow our Midlands operations and wider North division even further.”
Johnson said: “Since joining Wates, the strength of our Midlands team has always been very clear to me by the calibre of both our projects and our people. I’m proud to be now leading this region as we look to build on our previous successes and move further into new sectors, while bolstering our existing customer relationships.”
Wates is currently delivering the three-year refurbishment programme at the Grade II listed Derby Market Hall.
Elsewhere, Timms Solicitors has announced a trio of senior promotions.
Marketing manager Sharon Jeffery and finance and systems manager Ali Jodiyawalla have both been made senior associate, while wills and probate solicitor Matt Kelly has been promoted to associate at the Derby-headquartered firm.
Managing partner Fiona Moffat said: “Everyone at Timms has a personalised career development plan and we are fully committed to supporting individual’s aspirations and goals.
Ali Jodiyawalla, Sharon Jeffery and Matt Kelly
“These promotions are all very much deserved. The marketing, IT and finance functions are obviously crucial in the sustained growth of the firm across our high street offices in Derby, Burton, Swadlincote and Ashby and Sharon and Ali’s promotions reflect the value that we place on their work and input into the business.
“Matt has successfully completed our Pathway to Associate programme and is contributing a great deal to the expanding Wills and Probate team.”
