Kesterton joined when Kier was on the ropes with a battered balance sheet and mounting debt.

He leaves with the group firmly back on its feet, cash discipline tightened and major IT and procurement shake-ups pushed through.

CFO change: Simon Kesterson steps down after six years as Tom Hinton hired to drive next phase of growth

His replacement from January is Wincanton heavyweight Tom Hinton,  currently interim chief exec and formerly its long-serving CFO.

Hinton brings a track record in cost control, capital discipline and squeezing growth out of tough markets, built across roles at Infinis Energy and Domestic & General.

Kesterton said: “When I joined Kier, there was a lot to do, but I saw great businesses with great people and the opportunity to deliver something special. I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved at Kier and for restoring trust and confidence in the Group. After six great years…the time feels right to pass the baton.”

Hinton said: “I am delighted to be appointed as Kier’s next Chief Financial Officer. I see huge opportunities ahead for the Group.”

The shake-up lands as Kier kicks off FY26 with an £11.6bn order book and 94% of revenue already tied down.