He will succeed Simon Vivian, who, having led Breedon since its creation has indicated his wish to step down as group CEO and will move to a non-executive role with the company.
Ward is expected to join Breedon early next year once the terms of his departure from AI have been agreed and the required regulatory announcement will be made at that time.
Pat Ward has over 30 years’ experience in the aggregates and construction industries in the UK, US and Middle East. Having held a variety of roles with ARC/Hanson, he joined AI in 1995. After serving in several general management positions in AI UK’s aggregates and asphalt divisions, in 1999 he moved to Denver, USA, as vice-president of AI US’s West Central Region, later becoming senior vice president of that region, which in 2007 expanded to become the Western and Mid-Atlantic Region, employing over 2,000 people.
He was appointed CEO of AI in April 2014, assuming responsibility for an international business with over 4,000 employees.
Simon Vivian commented: “I’m tremendously proud of what we have achieved at Breedon and would like to thank everyone who has helped to create the business we have today. The company has doubled in size since Breedon’s formation in 2010 and we have a great team with a unique blend of experience and capability.
“While moving on is always difficult, I’m convinced that now is the right time for me to do so. I’ve known Pat for many years and am delighted that he is succeeding me at such an exciting time in Breedon’s development.”
Pat Ward said: “I’m delighted to be joining the UK’s largest independent aggregates business, having watched with interest the great progress made by Breedon since 2010. It’s clear to me that it has been able to flourish through a combination of the commitment and dedication of its employees and the strong leadership of Peter and Simon. This dedication is also apparent in the company’s visible commitment to Zero Harm across the entire business.
“I look forward to playing my part in the next leg of Breedon’s journey.”
Commenting on Pat’s appointment Peter Tom, Breedon’s executive chairman, said: “We’re fortunate to have persuaded one of the most successful and experienced executives in our industry to lead our business through the next phase of its growth.
“I’ve known Pat for more than 20 years and it’s rare to find someone with his combination of deep industry knowledge and outstanding leadership skills. It’s a measure of our achievement over the last five years that such a highly-respected figure within one of the world’s biggest building materials groups should decide to join the Breedon team.
“In welcoming Pat, I would also like to pay tribute to Simon Vivian on behalf of the board, our shareholders and employees, all of whom have prospered under his stewardship.
“Simon has overseen Breedon’s evolution into a leading player in the UK building materials sector and we have reason to be enormously grateful to him for his leadership. He and his management team have delivered an exceptional performance during a period of unprecedented economic and market challenges for our industry.
“Particular credit is due here to Tim Hall and Alan Mackenzie, who have so ably led our English and Scottish regions for the past five years. Under Pat’s direction, they will retain full operational control of their respective businesses and continue to play a prominent role in the growth and development of the group.
“Simon leaves the company in great shape and in good hands. We’re particularly delighted that he will remain with us as a non-executive director, enabling us to continue to take advantage of his experience and counsel.”
