Wates Group has announced the appointment of Pat Fitzgerald as its new Chief Commercial Officer, effective from 1 September 2025.

He will succeed Simon Potter, who retired earlier this year.

A chartered quantity surveyor, Fitzgerald brings over three decades of experience in commercial and operational management within the construction sector. He joins Wates from Mace, where he most recently served as Commercial Director for the Private Sector, overseeing a business with an annual turnover of £800 million. Prior to his tenure at Mace, he held senior roles at Lendlease.


Fitzgerald has a strong track record across the residential, commercial, and retail sectors, with notable contributions to major developments including the London 2012 Olympic Games programme, the Grand Arcade Shopping Centre in Cambridge, and the landmark Battersea Power Station redevelopment.

In his new role at Wates, Fitzgerald will lead the company’s commercial strategy nationwide, overseeing commercial, legal, and building safety teams across all business divisions. He will play a key role in driving sustainable growth, fostering collaboration, and ensuring alignment with Wates' long-term objectives as a purpose-led organisation.

"This is a very exciting time to be joining Wates, as it continues its exciting growth trajectory, delivering more and bigger projects up and down the country. I'm thrilled to be part of this journey and to support the company in its commitment to delivering excellence as a purpose-led business," said Mr Fitzgerald.