Kier has named Niki Steel to its executive committee as chief human resources officer, reinforcing the Group's plans to scale as a leading UK tier one contractor.

Steel joins from FTSE 100 engineering company IMI plc, where she served as chief people officer for sector operations over the past two years. With more than two decades of international experience, she has worked across home technology, digital education media and visual effects, including roles at Pearson plc and Dyson Group plc.

Starting in August 2026, Steel will play a central leadership role at Kier, supporting high performance across its workforce of around 10,000 people.

Her appointment follows Kier's decision earlier this year to merge two business divisions into a single infrastructure organisation led by Joe Incutti. Louisa Finlay has become the Group's chief operating officer after previously serving as chief people officer and is overseeing a smooth transition for Steel. James Askew took up the role of Group commercial director at the start of the year, with the executive committee focused on the next phase of growth.

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Niki comments: "It's an exciting time to be joining Kier, I can see so much opportunity for the Group and I cannot wait to join. Working alongside Stuart and all of the executive committee, I am looking forward to getting into the business, hearing and listening to colleagues and supporting them to help drive forwards the Group's ambition."

Stuart Togwell, chief executive for Kier, said: "Niki is a fantastic addition to Kier and our executive committee. She is a highly experienced HR and operational leader, with a strong track record of driving performance across organisations in both the UK and across the globe. Her warm, energetic leadership style will play an important role in supporting all of our people and growth ambitions."

Earlier this year, Kier was recognised by Glassdoor as one of the best companies to work for in the UK. The Group highlights professional development courses and access to qualifications as core to supporting and developing its people, building on an industry-leading employee engagement score and inclusive programmes such as Making Ground, which provides employment opportunities for serving prisoners and prison leavers, alongside longstanding support for those connected to the armed forces.