NG Bailey picks leader with 'second to none' expertise

Building services firm NG Bailey announced yesterday it has secured the services of David Hurcomb, 46, a high-flying former board director at Carillion plc.

He takes over from Chris Newton, who stepped up from his senior finance role to become acting CEO and had hoped to take on the role full time.

Instead, the 600m-turnover company opted for the external candidate in Mr Hurcomb, who has "second to none" expertise in the construction industry, according to chairman Nimble Thompson.

Currently interim CEO at Havelock Europa plc, a printing group, he was until last year responsible for Carillion's UK building, private finance, property services and training services businesses.

He joins NG Bailey in September.

Mr Thompson said: "I am delighted to announce David's appointment. I have every confidence that he will lead NG Bailey through the recession and into a new and exciting era. I look forward to welcoming David as CEO and as a member of our main board.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Chris Newton for leading the company through the last seven months as acting CEO and look forward to continuing to work with him in that role, until David starts.

"Chris will then revert to his previous role of chief finance officer."

The company announced record annual turnover last year of 600m, but sunk to a 10.8m loss following goodwill writedowns and turmoil in the stock market.

Mark Andrews, the previous chief executive, departed the company following a surprise announcement from NG Bailey in October. He later told the Yorkshire Post "it was always part of the plan" that he would leave after six years. Under his leadership, turnover grew from 400m to 600m.

Mr Hurcomb, who is married with two children, said: "I look forward to joining NG Bailey.

"As a company that is a leader in its field, with a fantastic reputation, I will be proud to lead it as CEO."

The company, which was founded in 1921, is owned by the Bailey family. Martin,Edward and Cal Bailey are directors on the board.

NG Bailey employs around 3,300 people across the UK.