Reporting to group chief executive Rick Willmott, Hugh will have overall responsibility for Willmott Dixon’s legal and regulatory affairs, supported by company secretary and fellow board member Wendy McWilliams.

He brings a wealth of expertise and strategic leadership experience gained from being a partner at Eversheds LLP, and then more recently with Kier, where he spent 11 years as general counsel, company secretary to the plc board and a member of the executive committee.

Rick Willmott said the arrival of Hugh Raven further strengthens Willmott Dixon’s senior management team.

He added: “We’ve taken our time to find the right person who could demonstrate an impeccable track record and legal credentials alongside possessing a thorough knowledge and understanding of our industry.

“I know Hugh is really looking forward to working in a private company, and what made Willmott Dixon really stand out to him are our values, reputation and purpose-driven approach towards sustainability, diversity and inclusion.”