Katy Dowding has been appointed president and CEO of Skanska UK, to take over from Gregor Craig, who is retiring.
Ms Dowding, who is currently a member of Skanska UK’s Executive Management Team, takes up her new role from 2 May.
Over her 20-year career with Skanska, she has held a diverse range of commercial, operational and strategic leadership roles, including managing director of Skanska UK’s facilities management operation for five years.
Since 2017, Ms Dowding has held the role of executive vice president with responsibility for Skanska UK’s building and building services businesses.
She is also a member of the Skanska Costain STRABAG joint venture board, overseeing the delivery of the London tunnels section of High Speed 2.
Ms Dowding also sits on the industry-level Construction Productivity Taskforce and previously held the role of chair of the National Association of Women in Construction for eight years. She is also the executive sponsor of Skanska UK’s Womxn’s and Pride employee networks.
Skanska said that Mr Craig, who became president and CEO in 2017, had led the business to deliver a consistently strong financial performance and guided it through the global pandemic.
Anders Danielsson, president and CEO of Skanska Group, said: ‘It is with great pride I welcome Katy as business unit president for Skanska UK.
‘She has shown strong leadership skills during her career that spans more than 30 years in the industry. Her drive and desire to make an impact coupled with her inclusive leadership style is a great combination that can take Skanska UK to the next level.'
He added: ‘I want to express my deepest gratitude to Greg for his commitment and professional leadership throughout his six years as business unit president for Skanska UK. His business mindset and ability to always put the customer first has positioned Skanska as one of UK’s most successful construction companies.’
Ms Dowding said: “I’m honoured and excited to be given the opportunity to lead Skanska UK. It’s a fantastic business with hugely talented people who help our customers to deliver successful projects and a lasting legacy for society.
‘We are very much focused on partnering with our customers and supply chain, helping to deliver on the big priorities for our industry, including improved productivity, greater diversity and inclusion, and a net-zero carbon future.'
Adam McDonald succeeds Ms Dowding as executive vice president for Skanska UK’s building and building services operations.
