CEO Stories: Five things we learned from Kier Group chief executive Andrew Davies
Andrew Davies, chief executive of Kier Group, was the latest guest on CEO Stories – a podcast from Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce which delves into the minds of the region’s best and brightest business leaders.
The podcast, hosted by GBCC chief executive Henrietta Brealey, is available in full on all major listening platforms such as Apple Podcasts and Spotify.
As CEO of a huge construction and infrastructure services firm, Andrew is at the helm of a company that impacts the lives of millions of people - including residents in Birmingham where Kier is responsible for operating all roads and has built a number of landmark buildings.
In his conversation with Henrietta, Andrew shares insights into his illustrious career and leadership philosophy.
He also discusses changes in the construction and infrastructure services industry and its relationship with Government, as a result of the collapse of Carillion in 2018.
And we hear about Andrew's passion for helping to further the careers of his employees, the importance of seizing opportunities and his personal interests outside of the business.
Here are five things we learned from Andrew's chat Henrietta...
1) Having a 'North Star'
Andrew emphasises the importance of having a clear vision and purpose for any company.
He likens this to having a 'North Star' that guides the organisation. This principle has been a constant throughout his career, from his early days at British Aerospace (now BAE Systems) to his current role at the Kier Group.
His dedication to this approach underscores the value of having a strategic direction and clarity in leadership.
"I do think you need to have a vision and you do need to have a purpose for your company - the North Star," says Andrew.
"I do think that's quite important for any company."
2) Champion of change
Andrew is not one to shy away from challenges or change.
We learn during this episode that he finds satisfaction in steering substantial transformations within large, heavily regulated industries.
His career showcases a pattern of stepping into roles that require significant change management and strategic redirection, such as his time at Wates Group and his current position at the Kier Group.
Despite the complexities involved, he maintains that embracing change is essential and part of the dynamic nature of business.
"You have to work with change because you'll never stop it," he explains.
3) Learning from every opportunity
Throughout his time at BAE Systems, Wates Group and now Kier, Andrew has drawn heavily on the experiences and ideas of those around him.
He believes that inspiration can come from every level within a company, not just from senior leaders.
His career reflects the mindset of a lifelong learner who values the input of colleagues and the broader experiences gained from different roles.
Andrew says: "You learn more in many ways from the generation of aspiring young managers and early careers people coming through.
"And if I can in any way, shape or help them, that's great. But I think you draw inspiration from all levels in the company."
4) Commitment to developing others
Supporting and developing others is a recurring theme in Andrew's leadership style.
He values the chance to sponsor innovative ideas and further the careers of his colleagues.
This commitment is evident in his involvement with leadership development programmes at Kier, where he actively engages with the next generation of leaders.
For Andrew, fostering talent within the organisation is as important as achieving business objectives.
5) Finding balance and personal resilience
Outside the office, Andrew finds balance and recharges through activities such as cycling, walking, sailing, and gardening.
He values these moments as opportunities to reflect and think through issues in a different setting.
This aspect of his life illustrates the importance he places on mental and physical well-being, highlighting that even amidst a high-paced professional environment, personal time and self-care are vital for sustainable leadership.
Andrew says: "It's all these sort of activities that give you an opportunity to think things through.
"Every so often when you're riding your bike, as well as watching where you're going, you've got an opportunityto think about an issue or two. I find it's very beneficial."
