Matt Johnson brings more than 20 years’ experience within the construction industry, most recently as Wates Group’s Operations Director in the Midlands. Before he joined the group in 2022, he worked as a Project Director for Lendlease and Balfour Beatty, as well taking up an executive director position for leisure contractor Pulse Design & Build.
Throughout his career he has focused on large, complex projects for both public and private sectors, including overseeing some of Wates Group’s largest projects in the Midlands such as Sandwell Aquatics Centre, Hartshill Academy in Nuneaton, and Coundon Court School in Coventry. Before joining Wates he was responsible for the delivery of National Automotive Innovation Centre at the University of Warwick and 60 Holborn Viaduct Amazon’s head office in City of London.
His experience spans multiple sectors including leisure, commercial, education and heritage, encompassing all aspects of construction from pre-construction to project delivery and operations.
In his new role, Matt will be responsible for leading Wates Group’s Midlands operations and contributing to the overall growth of the Northern region, strengthening partnerships with existing clients such as the Department for Education and Ministry of Justice, as well as overseeing the delivery of major public and private sector projects.
His appointment follows the recent restructure of the group’s construction business, creating three clear divisions North, South and Major Projects. This simplified regional structure supports efficiency, collaboration, and the changing nature of its work, with the group’s average project size having risen to £43m in 2022.
Dave Saville, Managing Director, Wates Construction North, said: “The sheer range of projects being planned and delivered makes the Midlands an absolute strategic focus for our business, as we seek to increase our portfolio. The diverse experience that Matt brings reflects this, making him a perfect fit to lead the region and take advantage of the opportunities here.
“He has already proven himself at Wates to be incredibly trusted and respected in both our business and with our customers, and I’m looking forward to working together as we seek to grow our Midlands operations and wider North division even further.”
Matt Johnson said:
“Since joining Wates, the strength of our Midlands team has always been very clear to me by the calibre of both our projects and our people. I’m proud to be now leading this region as we look to build on our previous successes and move further into new sectors, while bolstering our existing customer relationships.
Wates Group is currently delivering some of its largest and most complex work to date in the Midlands, including completing the landmark Sandwell Aquatics Centre in Smethwick; a three-year refurbishment programme at the Grade II listed Derby Market Hall; and a pipeline of large projects across the region for the Ministry of Justice.
