Keltbray makes internal appointment for chief executive post as Karl Goose steps down after six months

Keltbray has appointed a new chief executive after the firm said incumbent Karl Goose was stepping down after just six months in the role.

Peter Burnside, previously group finance director who moved up to executive deputy chairman last autumn, has replaced Goose, who was brought in from Ferrovial only last year.

Goose formally took over from Vince Corrigan last December, although his appointment was confirmed at the start of August.

Keltbray spent several months looking for a new chief executive after Corrigan, who joined from Sir Robert McAlpine in 2015, told Keltbray owner Brendan Kerr he was leaving earlier last year.

Keltbray said Goose – who had four interviews for the post – was stepping down “by mutual agreement with the Board”. The firm added: “Following a constructive period of transition and strategic review, both Keltbray and Karl have agreed that the role and organisation were ultimately not the right long-term fit.

“While there was strong alignment around the company’s ambitions; the day-to-day scope and expectations of the role evolved differently from those originally envisaged by both parties. The decision has therefore been reached amicably and with mutual respect.”

Earlier this year Goose, who preferred to work in London during the week rather than uproot his family from their Cotswolds home, told Building he was having to get to grips with a new part of the industry after more than 25 years at Ferrovial.

“My expertise is more heavy civils,” he said. “The building side is something I’m learning. New clients, meeting new people.” Explaining his decision to leave Ferrovial, which he joined when it was Amey before that firm was bought by the Spanish giant in 2003, he said: “I got to a point where I wanted to try something new. I had a fantastic time. The business was in a good place – always leave on a high.”

In a statement, Kerr said: “Karl is an exceptionally experienced and highly respected business leader, but also a genuinely great person to work with. From the moment he joined the company, he brought professionalism, integrity, energy and strategic insight to the organisation.

“Following open and positive discussions, we jointly concluded that the role and broader organisational environment were not ultimately the right fit for the longer term. This in no way reflects on Karl’s capability or leadership qualities, and we are grateful for the contribution he has made during his time with the business. We wish him every success in the future.”

Goose said: “Following open and constructive conversations with the Board, we have mutually agreed that this is the right time for the company and for me to move in different directions. I leave with great respect for the organisation and the people within it, and I wish the business every success as it continues to develop and expand into new markets.”

Burnside joined from accountant BDO eight years ago and Kerr said: “I have worked closely with Peter for over 20 years, and his deep understanding of Keltbray – both in the UK and internationally – makes him exceptionally well placed to lead the business forward. He has built strong relationships across our executive team and with our clients and partners, and I am confident he will bring the right blend of experience, energy, and leadership to the role as we continue to deliver on our strategic ambitions.”

Earlier this month, Keltbray said its 2025 turnover fell 12% to £320m and would only start to meaningfully grow again from next year when income would be around £400m.