HBC Construction strengthens regional delivery and digital construction capability through strategic expansion and senior leadership investment.
HBC Construction Limited has announced a significant step in its post-management buyout growth strategy with a new regional office in Leeds. The contractor, previously known as Henry Boot Construction, has secured a 2,350 sq ft workspace within the Aeris Building at Thorpe Park.
The new office, scheduled to open in April, strengthens HBC’s operational reach across Yorkshire, the East Midlands and Teesside. Importantly, the business will retain its headquarters in Dronfield, positioning the Leeds hub as a strategic extension rather than a relocation.
This expansion aligns with increasing demand for regional digital construction delivery, improving collaboration between contractors, consultants and supply chain partners. The Leeds location enhances accessibility and supports the execution of HBC’s £100m+ forward order book, reflecting continued confidence in both public and private sector construction markets.
Post-MBO strategy drives sustainable construction growth
Following its management buyout (MBO) in January, HBC is advancing an independent operating model focused on sustainable growth and operational resilience. The Leeds office forms a core component of this strategy, enabling decentralised project delivery supported by strengthened digital infrastructure and regional engagement.
The move reflects a broader trend within the digital construction sector, where regional hubs are increasingly used to support Building Information Modelling (BIM), data-driven project controls and collaborative delivery environments. By embedding itself closer to project locations and stakeholders, HBC is better positioned to streamline workflows and improve project outcomes.
Senior leadership appointments strengthen digital capability
To support its expansion, HBC has appointed several senior leaders across key operational and digital functions.
Clare Gill joins as Head of Social Value, bringing nearly 20 years of experience across major contractors including Wates Group and BAM Construct UK. Her portfolio includes delivery on major public sector developments such as Kirklees Council’s Cultural Heart programme and Sheffield Hallam University’s City Campus scheme.
Marie Duncan has been appointed Head of HR, with previous roles at GMI Construction, Stroma Group, Wincanton and Kitwave Group.
Digital transformation is further reinforced by Trevor Foster, who joins following senior roles at Claire’s, GMI Construction and JVL Group. His appointment highlights HBC’s focus on digital construction systems, data integration and IT infrastructure.
Meanwhile, Brendon Keown brings continuity after 17 years with the business, ensuring alignment between operational safety and evolving digital compliance frameworks.
Internal promotions reinforce construction expertise
HBC has also promoted three senior leaders, demonstrating its commitment to skills development and long-term workforce investment. Ian Gresser, Sam Cookson and Mathew Clarke have all progressed through the company’s apprenticeship pathway.
This internal progression reflects a workforce strategy aligned with digital construction skills development, where technical capability, project data literacy and long-term organisational knowledge are critical to delivery success.
Leadership perspective on construction sector growth
Managing Director Lee Powell said: “The imminent opening of our Leeds office and the appointment of new senior leaders mark an important step in HBC’s continued momentum. We’re a modern, owner operated contractor, and these developments further enhance our capability and support our commitment to sustainable, well managed growth.
“Since the MBO, we’ve kept the same people and the same delivery values that clients trust, but now with greater autonomy to diversify and expand our work. With a 14 year average employee tenure and almost half of our colleagues starting out as apprentices, our culture and continuity remain central to who we are.
“These appointments bring valuable new expertise while building on that continuity – giving us the right blend of long standing knowledge and fresh capability as we continue this next phase for the business.”
Group Commercial Director Chris Weathers added: “We’re seeing strong confidence across both public and private sectors. With 11 retained frameworks, a robust order book and an expanding geographical footprint, the new Leeds office will enhance our regional presence and support our continued growth.
“We’re a modern business that harnesses the extensive experience and expertise across the business so we’re proud to make these new hires and promotions to further strengthen our offer.”
HBC Construction’s Leeds expansion and leadership investment position the business to scale digital construction delivery, strengthen regional collaboration, and support sustained growth across complex, multi-sector built environment projects.
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