Building Awards 2024 shortlists: CEO of the Year

Earlier this year Building announced all the firms who made it on to the shortlists for our prestigious annual Building Awards.

Now we are shining the spotlight on each category in turn and publishing a selection of the images that impressed the judges.

Today’s shortlist is for CEO of the Year, sponsored by DGP.

Andrew Davies, Kier

Andrew Davies has been the chief executive officer of Kier Group since 2019. With more than three decades of experience in the construction industry, Davies has been instrumental in steering Kier through challenging times and positioning it for growth, taking over at a tumultuous time for the company. 

In the past year, Davies oversaw Kier’s continued recovery and strategic transformation. Under his leadership, the company focused on streamlining operations, reducing debt and improving profit margins. Davies emphasised Kier’s strengths in key sectors such as infrastructure, utilities and building, securing several high-profile contracts including major road projects and healthcare facilities. 

Davies’ commitment to sustainability has been evident in Kier’s increased focus on environmental initiatives and the company’s target to achieve net zero carbon emissions. His efforts to enhance Kier’s digital capabilities and promote innovation within the construction sector have also been noteworthy. 

One of Davies’ key achievements has been the successful implementation of Kier’s Performance Excellence programme, which has driven operational efficiencies across the business. He has also been instrumental in fostering a culture of safety and wellbeing, resulting in improved performance metrics across Kier’s sites. 

Under Davies’ guidance, Kier has strengthened its position in the UK’s infrastructure sector, particularly in relation to the government’s levelling-up agenda. His strategic focus on selective bidding and risk management has contributed to improved project delivery and client satisfaction. 

Davies has also prioritised talent development and diversity within Kier, launching initiatives to attract and retain skilled professionals in the construction industry. His leadership during the post-pandemic recovery period has been crucial in navigating supply chain challenges and inflationary pressures, ensuring Kier’s resilience in a dynamic market environment. 

Dan Labbad, The Crown Estate

Dan Labbad has been the chief executive officer of the Crown Estate since December 2019. The Crown Estate is a unique real estate business with a diverse portfolio that includes much of London’s West End as well as offshore wind farms and rural land across the UK. 

In the year preceding April 2024, Labbad continued to steer the Crown Estate through a period of significant change and opportunity. Under his leadership, the organisation made substantial progress in its commitment to becoming a net zero business by 2030, implementing innovative sustainability practices across its portfolio. 

His focus on long-term value creation and sustainable growth has been evident in the Crown Estate’s strategic investments and partnerships. Labbad’s efforts to enhance the organisation’s digital infrastructure and data-driven decision-making processes have positioned the Crown Estate at the forefront of the evolving real estate sector. 

Labbad has been instrumental in fostering collaboration with local communities and stakeholders, ensuring that the Crown Estate’s activities deliver broader societal benefits. His leadership in biodiversity conservation efforts, particularly in marine environments, has garnered recognition from environmental organisations. 

Under Labbad’s guidance, the Crown Estate has expanded its role in supporting the UK’s transition to a low carbon economy, not only through offshore wind but also through initiatives in green infrastructure and sustainable urban development. 

Labbad has also focused on enhancing the Crown Estate’s transparency and governance structures, strengthening its relationship with the UK government and the public. His emphasis on inclusivity and diversity within the organisation has led to notable improvements in workforce representation and equal opportunities. 

Michael Speakman, Keller

Michael Speakman has served as the chief executive officer of Keller Group, the world’s largest geotechnical specialist contractor, for the past five years. With a strong background in finance and international business, Speakman has been pivotal in driving Keller’s global strategy and operational excellence. 

In the past 12 months, Speakman guided Keller through the challenges posed by global economic uncertainties. Under his leadership, the company maintained its focus on large and complex projects, leveraging its unique engineering expertise. Speakman oversaw the expansion of Keller’s presence in emerging markets and the strengthening of its position in established ones. 

Speakman’s emphasis on innovation led to the development and implementation of new ground engineering techniques, enhancing Keller’s competitive edge. His commitment to safety and sustainability resulted in improved performance metrics across the company’s global operations. 

One of Speakman’s key initiatives has been the acceleration of Keller’s digital transformation. This includes the implementation of advanced data analytics and AI-driven solutions to optimise project planning and execution. Under his guidance, Keller has also invested significantly in research and development, particularly in sustainable construction methods and materials. 

Speakman has been instrumental in Keller’s strategic acquisitions, expanding the company’s service offerings and geographical reach. His focus on operational efficiency has led to improved margins and cash generation, strengthening Keller’s financial position. 

Speakman’s leadership during the post-pandemic recovery has been marked by agile decision-making and a strong focus on risk management, ensuring Keller’s ability to navigate supply chain disruptions and inflationary pressures effectively.