Jolyon Harrison, who was appointed chief executive officer seven years ago, received a total package worth £2.9m last year.

In a statement this morning, the board said: “Following extensive discussions with Mr Harrison regarding his remuneration and succession planning, the board concluded that it was not possible to find a mutually acceptable basis for Mr Harrison to continue as chief executive officer.

“The board believes that the company is very well placed to continue to achieve strong growth in turnover and profits.”

Former chief executive of Keepmoat Homes, James Thomson, will act as chief executive officer on an interim basis with immediate effect.  

Gleeson will now start the search for a long-term replacement, which will include both internal and external candidates.

The house builder is scheduled to issue its next trading update in early July and results for the year ended 30 June 2019 on 16 September 2019.