Property people: Torsion Group and Henry Boot Construction

Torsion Group, a Leeds-based development, construction and real estate management business, has appointed David Worsley as chief operating officer.
His deal-forming abilities, industry contacts and delivery successes have been instrumental in helping Torsion secure a record number of large schemes over the last 18 months and, most recently, Torsion’s £53m JV with Housing Growth Partnership in Sheffield.
Over the last six years, Worsley has been responsible for assembling the development of over 3,200 purpose built student accommodation beds and 1,150 residential apartments. He has generated more than £710m of capital, including institutional and private equity.
As COO, he will focus on identifying future key development opportunities, securing large-scale funding, and negotiating Joint Venture partnerships.
He will also support the relevant business managing directors in delivering their growth and business improvement plans within Torsion Developments, Torsion Construction, Torsion Homes, and Luna Students.
With Worsley’s move to COO, Ed Wootton takes on the responsibility of managing director for Torsion Construction and Torsion Developments.
Since taking control of Torsion Construction as MD, Wootton’s efforts have allowed Torsion to implement a new regional operating structure and deliver significant business improvement plans across all disciplines.
With a career spanning over 35 years, Wootton has a wealth of experience in developments and construction.
Dan Spencer CEO at Torsion said: “It gives me great pleasure to promote Dave Worsley to the role of chief operating officer and Ed Wootton to managing director of Torsion Developments.
“Alongside myself, Dave Worsley was integral in founding Torsion Developments and has been instrumental in our growth and positioning as a market-leading developer.
“His continued and dedicated focus in this area will help us forge ahead in our core sectors.
“Dave is delivering the strategic growth plan in the sector by finding innovative solutions to provide funding for schemes and unlock developments.
“This allows us to secure an exciting pipeline of projects by working closely as developer, contractor and operator.
“Ed’s appointment has provided a single, clear leadership structure that enhances project outcomes and strengthens our ability to offer clients end-to-end solutions.
“It has culminated in a record number of new projects for Torsion over the last 12 months.
“Aligning our senior leadership team to satisfy the needs of the business will help us deliver further growth and ensure we continue to exceed investor and client expectations while delivering our long-term business plans.”
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Henry Boot has confirmed that Lee Powell, currently CEO of the national contractor GMI Construction, will assume the role of managing director, Henry Boot Construction, joining the business in January 2025.
Tony Shaw, the current managing director, will leave the business at the end of 2024.
Shaw joined the business as an apprentice in 1985 and progressed to a number of positions, including regional manager and operations director before being promoted to managing director in 2021.
Powell’s 28-year career to date has included senior positions at Wates Construction and Caddick Construction.
More recently he has spearheaded the growth of the GMI Construction business in the north of England and the Midlands, delivering large-scale projects for clients such as Siemens, Bruntwood and Muse.
CEO of Henry Boot, Tim Roberts, said: “I’m pleased to welcome Lee to the Henry Boot Construction business, who joins us with a proven track record and extensive industry experience.
“Lee’s passion for delivering high-quality spaces and places aligns with what Henry Boot is all about – creating impact. Lee’s primary focus will be to restore and grow the business and I very much look forward to us working closely together.
“At the same time, I wish Tony all the best in his future endeavours. He leaves the business on good terms and we appreciate everything he has done, contributing to the success of Henry Boot over the years.”
Powell said: “Henry Boot Construction has a fantastic legacy and an excellent reputation for quality. I am excited to join the team in January.
“At a time when our sector still faces significant challenges, we now have a new Government who have put economic growth at the heart of their plans, and as a trusted construction contractor, we are ready to contribute towards this.
“I am taking over a business that puts its people, health and safety and customer satisfaction at the heart of all it does and I will help establish a new impetus within the business that will appeal to a wider spectrum of customers who can also enjoy the incredible service that Henry Boot Construction can deliver.
“I would like to thank Tony for his significant contribution to the business and wish him well for the future.”
Shaw added: “After spending nearly 40 years of my working life at Henry Boot Construction, now is the right time for me to step down as managing director.
“This will allow for a new approach in the management and direction of the business and I extend my best wishes to Lee Powell in his new position.
“I am proud of what the business has achieved under my leadership and I am both honoured and privileged to have worked with such a great team of people.”