National Highways Chair Joins Wates Board as Non-Executive Director

Infrastructure veteran Gareth Rhys Williams brings experience from both government and industry as Wates strengthens its leadership team during a period of sustained growth.

Construction and development group Wates has strengthened its board with the appointment of Gareth Rhys Williams, the current chairman of National Highways, as a non-executive director.

The appointment adds significant infrastructure, commercial and public sector expertise to the company's Enterprise Board as Wates continues to build on a period of strong financial performance and strategic expansion.

Williams has held a number of senior leadership roles across both the private and public sectors. Before becoming chairman of National Highways, he served as chief executive of several major businesses, including PHS Group, Charter International, Capital Safety and Vitec.

He also spent eight years as the UK Government's Chief Commercial Officer, a role he held between 2016 and 2024, where he oversaw improvements to commercial capability across the public sector and helped drive efficiencies within major procurement programmes.

Commenting on his appointment, Williams said he was looking forward to supporting the next stage of the company's development.

"I'm delighted to be joining Wates, a business with a proud heritage and a clear commitment to a positive future. I look forward to working with the Enterprise Board and Executive Committee as the business continues its next phase of growth."

His arrival comes as Wates continues to strengthen its position within the UK construction and infrastructure market.

The company recently reported an order book approaching £10 billion, alongside annual revenue increasing by six per cent to £2.56 billion. Pre-tax profits rose sharply to £29.2 million, while year-end net cash reached a record £248.3 million.

The results follow a significant restructuring programme undertaken in 2024, including the integration of property services specialist Liberty and Wates Fit Out, helping simplify the group's operating structure and broaden its service offering.

Welcoming the appointment, Tim Wates, Chairman of Wates Group, said Williams' experience would provide valuable strategic insight as the business continues to evolve.

"Gareth brings extensive knowledge of infrastructure, commercial strategy and organisational transformation, all of which will support the delivery of our long-term strategy and our purpose of reimagining places for people to thrive.

"His experience across both industry and government gives him a unique understanding of complex organisations and major programmes. His track record of delivering transformation and creating long-term value will be an important addition to the Board."

The appointment further reinforces Wates' focus on combining commercial growth with long-term strategic leadership as the business continues to expand its presence across the construction, infrastructure and property sectors.