Laing O’Rourke has appointed Wayne Davies as chief people officer, effective 12 January 2026.
In this group-wide role, Davies will lead the company’s global people strategy, focused on strengthening capability, building the talent pipeline, accelerating inclusion and transformation, and ensuring the business continues to put people at the heart of its operations. He will work in collaboration with Laing O’Rourke’s leadership and people teams to attract aspiring and capable talent across the industry.
Group CEO Cathal O’Rourke said he is excited for Davies to join the business and the Group Executive Committee.
“He brings an outstanding track record leading people functions across complex, international organisations,” said O’Rourke. “His experience in transformation, organisational and talent development will help us deliver on our ambitions as we step up to drive a new delivery paradigm for the construction industry.”
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Davies’ career spans manufacturing, aviation, healthcare, infrastructure, energy distribution, transportation and financial services. Having held HR leadership roles over a 15-year period with General Electric in assignments around the world, he also led the HR function for Emirates Airline as well as one of the major Middle Eastern construction giga-projects. More recently, he was CHRO in a private equity-backed services business.
Commenting on his appointment, Davies said, “I’m delighted to be joining Laing O’Rourke at such an exciting and ambitious moment for the business.
“Throughout my career, I’ve been driven by the belief that empowered, well‑supported people are the foundation of exceptional performance.
“I have long admired the innovative DNA, entrepreneurial spirit and values-based leadership that is synonymous with Laing O’Rourke.
“I look forward to partnering with colleagues across the organisation to build our capability, strengthen our culture, and help ensure that our teams continue to deliver outstanding outcomes for our clients and communities.”