He has held the role on an interim basis since October 2023 when former MD Mark Tant left the business after nine years.

Battle has been at Wates since 1995, spending his initial 18 years in a regional capacity including five years as Regional Director. Following this he led the pre-construction function for Wates Construction Group, which includes SES Engineering Services, for more than six years.

The construction business is Wates’ largest operation employing more than 1,300 people with annual revenue in the region of £1bn.

Battle said: “I’m delighted to be continuing in my role as Managing Director of Wates Construction. Our business is full of talented, committed people doing amazing work across the country. I will nurture an environment that enables people to thrive, a place where their voices are heard, respected and valued.

“I am an advocate of working with delivery partners and stakeholders to create the optimum balance between quality, cost and programme. It’s really important to me that we always seek to build a more customer-focused, value-enhancing offering. It is a great privilege to be given the opportunity to lead this great business.”

Paul Chandler, Executive Managing Director, Wates Construction Group said: “Developing our people and providing exciting career opportunities is a priority for us at Wates. So, it is great to be able to confirm that Steff will be continuing in this vitally important position on a permanent basis.

“With almost 30 years’ industry experience, Steff brings a wealth of experience that will be invaluable as we continue to work across the Construction Group and our supply chain to deliver the very best for our customers.”