Brundell joined the privately-owned builder as a trainee nearly four decades ago and became its first ever Trainee of the Year before rising through the ranks to lead the London & East region.

He now steps into the role vacated by John Waterman earlier this year, bringing continuity to Willmott Dixon’s succession strategy.

Taking over Brundell’s former patch is delivery director Simon Ramage, another former Trainee of the Year with almost 30 years at the firm. He will serve as deputy MD before moving into the full role in January 2026.

Alongside the reshuffle, northern MD Anthony Dillon will take on a wider brief for growth, while Midlands MD Peter Owen will support operational delivery. Business strategist Richard Cotter also joins the construction board as non-exec director.

Chief executive Graham Dundas said Brundell’s promotion underlined the group’s focus on homegrown leadership.

“Stewart’s promotion to COO reflects both his exceptional track record and our focus on creating the right platform for our next stage of growth. His near 40-year career from trainee to COO is a tremendous success story and demonstrates the strength of our succession planning.”