Ashworth, who spent the last four years as commercial director of social housing at Balfour Beatty Construction Services, will drive building development activity across the country.
He brings over 25 years’ experience in the housing and construction sectors and previously held roles at Richardson Projects and Rok, where he was a commercial manager.
Lee McCarren, chief executive office, Forrest, said: “Neil’s appointment comes at an exciting time for us, following the appointment of Ian McGillivary as commercial director, the imminent launch of our North East office and a range of new contract wins across our service lines since the start of our 60th year in business.
“There’s a significant shortfall of social housing stock across the UK and the new-build market remains a key part of our nationwide growth strategy under which we aim to deliver quality affordable housing for both new and existing clients.”