New chairman for housebuilder

Persimmon Homes has promoted one of its own to a major new role within the company.

Julian Roper has been appointed by Persimmon Homes to be chairman of its South West division.

Roper had recently been regional managing director of the region having served as managing director of the developer’s Wessex business since 2020.

He takes over from Liam Scott – who has been promoted to deputy UK managing director and UK director of Charles Church – and will be responsible for overseeing and supporting Persimmon’s businesses in the South West. Both take up their roles in January.

Roper’s promotion comes after a track record of success in the Wessex business, which has live sites in Swindon, Witney, Grove, Warminster, Malmesbury, and Didcot.

His career began as an apprentice carpenter with Beazer Homes and progressed to contracts manager, before joining Persimmon prior to the Beazer acquisition.

Roper said: “I am delighted that I’ll soon be taking on the role of Chair of the South West division, and I look forward to working with all the businesses in the region so the company can leave a positive and lasting legacy at each and every one of our sites.

“I am so thankful to the Persimmon team for placing their faith in me with this role and I’m eager to apply my experience to drive further growth and operational excellence for the division. I am confident that together, we will continue to achieve new heights.

“I look forward to contributing to the continued successes of Persimmon across the South West division.”