Wates Group secures new Chief People Officer
Wates Group secures new Chief People Officer
James Saunders has been appointed Chief People Officer for Wates Group, following Paul Rowan’s decision to retire.
He takes up the post on 6 May 2025 and will sit on the Executive Committee, working closely alongside Paul during a transitional phase.
He joins Wates from Highbourne Group, a major plumbing, heating and renewable energy company, where he held the role of Chief People & Culture Officer. His career also includes Head of HR roles at Vodafone and Nationwide.
James is an energetic and agile leader with a passion for creating open, collaborative, purpose-driven cultures where people care deeply about delivering for customers and creating value for society. These attributes are all highly prized at Wates Group, and we look forward to welcoming him.”
Eoghan O’Lionaird
Chief Executive Officer
Paul Rowan has been HR director for Wates Group since August 2014, serving on the Executive Committee. He will retire from the business at the end of 2025.
