Galliford Try chairman steps down

The chairman of Galliford Try has stepped down, with his responsibilities to be immediately taken up by the contractor’s chief executive Greg Fitzgerald as executive chairman.

Fitzgerald announced last month he plans to retire this year and the search for a new chief executive continues.

But this week Galliford Try said chairman Ian Coull would step down with “immediate effect due to other business and personal commitments”.

The firm said Fitzgerald would fulfil the role of executive chairman until “no later than December 2015”.

Galliford Try said it had begun searching for a new chief executive, while the board would also commence a search for a new non-executive director.

The firm said non-executive director Peter Rogers would take the role of interim deputy chairman, supporting Fitzgerald in his role.

Coull said: “As a result of my growing business and personal commitments I have decided to step down as chairman after just under four very enjoyable years at Galliford Try.

“I leave the business in very capable hands, and in an excellent financial position with a clear growth strategy.”   

Fitzgerald said: “I look forward to working closely with the board as we continue with the group’s strategy of growth across all our businesses, and focus on securing a strong chief executive.”