The corporate reshuffle follows a review of the organisation to bring it into line with the Wates Corporate Governance Principles for large privately-owned companies.

Former Multiplex chief Ashley Muldoon and Phil Wilbraham, former expansion programme director for Heathrow Airport, join the board of Keltbray Holdings under the chairmanship of Tony Douglass, himself former chief at Heathrow.

Keltbray has also been re-organised into three key operating businesses along broad sector lines with their own managing directors under the holding company.

Darren James, chief executive officer, said: “By realigning our organisational structure with our key sectors in this way, it will allow us to unleash our potential to improve our services, build greater scale, profitability and business resilience.”

Divisional MDs: Michael O’Hagan, heads Built Environment; Martin Brown, runs Rail; and Mike Snee heads Keltbray Energy

Michael O’Hagan is appointed managing director, Keltbray Built Environment, reporting to Vince Corrigan, Chief Operating Officer.

O’Hagan is responsible for leading Keltbray’s core engineering and construction activities across the buildings and social infrastructure sectors.

Martin Brown is confirmed as managing director of Keltbray Rail reporting to Phil Price, managing director of Infrastructure.

Mike Snee is appointed managing director, Keltbray Energy, also reporting to Price.

Brendan Kerr, Executive Chairman said: “The board and I firmly believe the organisational enhancements announced today support Keltbray’s commitment to good corporate governance and a strategic customer focus which will deliver increased value for all our stakeholders.

“I am delighted that Phil and Ashley, experienced and respected industry figures with fresh perspectives and specific sector expertise, will enable the Board to oversee the management of a broader range of risks and opportunities in support of our strategy for growth.”