Chandler, who joined from Skanska UK where he worked over 34 years rising to executive vice president,  joins the board with immediate effect and also sits on the company’s Executive Committee

Since joining Wates, Chandler has overseen the continuing growth of the construction division, which delivered increased profits and a turnover to nearly £1bn.

The business secured nearly £3bn of new business last year, including  the Scape Major Works UK Framework; the Education and Skills Funding Agency’s latest framework, as well as major projects for Public Health England and the framework to renovate buildings in Parliament’s Northern Estate.

Chairman James Wates said: “Paul has made a real impact since joining us at the start of 2017.

“He brings a set of skills and a wealth of experience that I believe will make a real contribution to the board and to our continuing drive to make Wates an even more progressive, sustainable and high-performing business, which prioritises the needs of all our customers.”

Chandler added: “I am delighted to be joining the Wates Group board and look forward to helping it lead the next phase of the organisation’s development.”