Kier has today announced the appointment of Paul Sheffield as Group Chief Executive.

Mr Sheffield will succeed John Dodds who after nearly forty years with the Group intends to step down as Chief Executive and from the Board at the end of March 2010.

Paul will then take over as Group Chief Executive in April.

Paul Sheffield (48) joined Kier as a graduate civil engineer in 1983. He gained extensive experience in UK and international contracting and was appointed Managing Director of Kier Construction in 2001 and joined the Kier Regional Board in 2004. He was appointed to the Group Board in October 2005 and currently has responsibility for the Group's construction, infrastructure and overseas businesses.

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John Dodds, Chief Executive, commented: 'I've worked with Paul for over 25 years and I am absolutely convinced that he is the right man to lead Kier into the future. Paul is highly talented and I look forward to working with him to ensure a seamless transition during the lead up to my retirement."

Phil White, Chairman, said: "Following a thorough selection process of internal and external candidates, we are delighted to appoint Paul Sheffield as John's successor.

"We believe that Paul’s experience, skills and intimate knowledge of the business provides a very firm foundation for building on the excellent work that John has achieved. I would very much like to thank John for the leadership, commitment and direction he has shown Kier in his seven years as Chief Executive."

(GK/KMcA)