Mark Farrar has been confirmed as the new ConstructionSkills Chief Executive who will take over from Peter Lobban when he retires in August 2008.

The present Director of Corporate Services for ConstructionSkills was appointed after an interview process which involved representatives from stakeholders from major contractors, SMEs, federations, unions, education and partner organisations.

Mark joined ConstructionSkills as Corporate Services Director in March 2007. In this role, he was accountable for managing the CITB-ConstructionSkills Levy and Grant system to ensure as much money as possible can be paid back to industry. He was also responsible for managing the Business Planning, Finance, Human Resources, Information Systems and Legal functions.

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During his first year in post, for the first time ever, the aim of '£1 for £1' was achieved - meaning for every £1 of Levy paid, £1 was returned back to firms that train in grants and employer support. Overall, the construction industry got more value for the Levy paid, with £2.03 returned to the industry in total benefits for every £1 paid during 2007.

Mark's previous role was Chief Executive of CEFAS (a Government science and environment research body), which he joined as Finance and Resources Director before being promoted.

ConstructionSkills Chairman, Sir Michael Latham said: "I am delighted to confirm that Mark received a vote of confidence from all sectors of the construction industry, and from our other important stakeholders, during the interviews. His excellent track record in his present role also proved to be decisive."

(CD/JM)