Breedon Group has announced that current chief financial officer James Brotherton will become chief executive officer from 1 January 2027, replacing Rob Wood.
Wood has decided to retire after 12 years with the construction materials group, including almost six years as CEO. Breedon, which is headquartered in Derby, said Brotherton will take over at the beginning of next year as part of a planned leadership transition.
Brotherton has served as Breedon’s CFO since 2021 and has worked alongside Wood on the group’s “expand and improve” strategy. The programme has included the establishment of operations in the US and Breedon’s move to the main market of the London Stock Exchange.
The company has now begun the recruitment process for a new CFO. Wood will remain an employee of Breedon until 30 September 2027 to support the transition and ensure an orderly handover.
Wood said: “I am delighted that the board has chosen James [Brotherton] to succeed me, and I look forward to supporting both him and the board through this period of transition.”
Davy Research analysts described the succession as “orderly” and said they did not expect a change in the group’s strategic direction.
Breedon’s shares fell 3.8% to 311.00 pence on Thursday morning in London following the announcement.
The leadership change comes as Breedon continues to operate against differing market conditions across its main territories. In July, the group said it would maintain its annual guidance in line with market expectations, supported by positive momentum in Ireland and the US. However, it also said market indicators pointed to a decline in UK demand for a fifth consecutive year.
Brotherton said he was looking forward to taking on the role, highlighting the group’s asset base and growth opportunities across its markets.
“We have an excellent business with high-quality and irreplaceable assets, strong market positions and talented colleagues. With attractive growth potential in the US and Ireland, and a material recovery opportunity in Great Britain, it is an exciting time to be taking on this role.”
