Cleworth will be responsible for a portfolio of projects across the region including overseeing Wates’ delivery of Public Health England’s new public health science campus and headquarters in Harlow, Essex.

His 20-year career has seen him hold senior operations roles at both Kier and Interserve for five and four and a half years respectively.

Past projects include the Sanger Sequencing Building at the Wellcome Genome Campus in Hinxton, Cambridge, and the redevelopment of Parnell House, a mixed-use scheme in Victoria, London.

Ian Vickers, managing director at Wates Construction Home Counties, said: “Stuart’s knowledge and capabilities make him an excellent addition to complement our East of England team.

“His appointment is an important step in our growth across the region as we continue to seek new market opportunities while generating a local economic and social impact wherever we work.”