THE CBI has appointed Steve Hindley CBE as the new chairman of its construction council.

A civil engineer with more than 30 years’ experience in the construction industry, Hindley is chairman of Midas Group, one of the fastest- growing independent property services providers in the UK.

He succeeds John McDonough CBE of Carillion, who is stepping down after three successful years as chairman of the CBI Construction Council.

CBI deputy director-general, Dr Neil Bentley, said: “I am delighted to welcome Steve Hindley as our new CBI Construction Council chairman at this critical time.

“As a leader of one of construction’s fastest-growing medium-sized firms, Steve Hindley brings a fresh perspective on what the sector needs to ensure a sustainable recovery.

“Construction firms and their supply chain account for around 13% of GDP so creating construction jobs and growth is vital to the health of the wider economy. We need the Government to publish a forward pipeline of work to give firms the confidence to invest in skills and processes which will improve efficiency and reduce delivery costs.”

The CBI’s Construction Council was formed in 2008 to represent construction, contracting, civil engineering, materials suppliers, house building, design, and support services.

John McDonough, said: “With Steve Hindley at the helm, the council will go from strength to strength, continuing to engage with the Government at the highest level.”

Hindley, said: “I want to pay great tribute to our founding chairman and I look forward to working with all members of the council to continue addressing the considerable issues that face our industry at this time, like the housing shortage.

“It is essential that we spread the message about the importance of the industry.”