Alan Dunsmore becomes chief executive officer and Adam Semple finance director, both on a permanent basis, having held those roles on an interim basis since last March.

Ian Cochrane remains chief operating officer and will continue to deliver on Severfield’s operational strategic objectives.

John Dodds will remain in the role of Chairman on a non-executive basis.

Lawson joined Sevefield four years ago after leaving Kier where he worked as a director for more than 12 years.

Dodds said: “I would like to pay tribute to Ian Lawson’s tremendous contribution to the Severfield business since his arrival in November 2013.

“He has been the architect of the group strategy, setting the target of doubling our underlying pre-tax profits by 31 March 2020.

“Under his leadership Severfield is well on track to deliver against this important milestone. Ian leaves with our thanks and best wishes.”