Deirdre Murphy takes on a critical new strategic role leading the development of Skanska’s 2020 business plan.

Murphy has managed Skanska’s infrastructure services operation since 2008 and oversaw the successful acquisition of Atkins’ highways services business.

Skanska UK’s civil engineering arm managing director Greg Craig will take over running the infrastructure services business.

Thomas Faulkner replaces Craig at the helm of the civil engineering business.

It has taken him just 18 years to work his way up through Skanska, from graduate to managing director.

President and CEO Mike Putnam said: “The management changes strategically position our business to benefit from the pick-up in the economy.

“We are bullish about the UK market, particularly in infrastructure. We have delivered five years of strong and stable performance during one of the most protracted recessions in living memory.

“We are now in a strong position to grow the business and tap into future investment.

“We have been able to fill all these important roles internally, which is a testament to our efforts to be a leader in people development.

“We are committed to developing our people and providing them with opportunities to reach their full potential.

“I am excited about the future for our business and believe we have the right team in place to deliver a great result for our clients and shareholders.”