Lee McCarren is third chief executive in over 50 years and the first from outside the Forrest family

Preston-based contractor Herbert T Forrest has appointed Lee McCarren chief executive, the third person to hold the position in the firm’s 54 year history.

McCarren, who is the first figure from outside the Forrest family to lead the company, joins from Bardsley Construction, where he was group chief executive officer.

He takes over from Tim Forrest, who has held the post since 1993. Forrest will remain on the board of directors.

McCarren said: “Coming from another family-run business, I am aware of the strong values that Forrest has and I intend to continue growing the company in the manner that retains these values and I am very excited about working with the team to ensure they continue to be successful.”

Tim Forrest added: “Lee has a strong operational background in construction, especially in the education and new-build housing sectors and he brings a vast amount of industry experience to the company.

“Only myself and Herbert have held the chief executive position over the past 54 years, so this appointment demonstrates the trust we have in Lee to steer the company to greater success.”