Laing O’Rourke appoints Chief People Officer

Laing O’Rourke today announced the appointment of Wayne Davies as Chief People Officer, effective 12 January 2026.

In this group-wide role, Wayne will lead Laing O’Rourke’s global people strategy focused on strengthening capability, building the talent pipeline, accelerating inclusion & transformation and ensuring the business continues to put people at the heart of its operations. Wayne will work in collaboration with our leadership and People teams to ensure Laing O’Rourke remains the employer of choice for aspiring and capable talent in our industry and beyond.

Wayne’s 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, Wayne was CHRO in a Private Equity backed services business.

Group CEO, Cathal O’Rourke said: “I am excited for Wayne to join our business and the Group Executive Committee.

“He brings an outstanding track record leading people functions across complex, international organisations.

“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.”

Commenting on his appointment, Wayne 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.”