Kier picks Hinton for CFO

Outgoing finance chief Simon Kesterton, who held the top financial post at the construction firm for six years, is to be replaced by Tom Hinton in January.

Hinton is currently interim chief executive at supply chain provider Wincanton, where he was chief financial officer for the best part of the last four years.

Before Wincanton, Hinton cut his teeth as a financial officer at producer WE Soda and insurer Domestic & General.

Hinton will work from Kier’s Manchester office at Optimum House in Clippers Quay.

Kier has announced a positive trend going into the 2026 financial year. The company’s order book amounts to £11.6bn, with 94% of the group’s revenue for the next financial year estimated to be secured.

Hinton, chief financial officer of Kier, said: “I see huge opportunities ahead for the group, and I am looking forward to working with the team and all of Kier’s stakeholders to continue to build sustainable success and make meaningful, lasting impact.”

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Stuart Togwell, chief executive of Kier, added: “I would like to thank Simon for his outstanding leadership in supporting the delivery of Kier’s strategic transformation over the past six years.

“Kier today is very different to the company he joined, and he has played a pivotal role in strengthening our balance sheet and delivering our medium-term plan.”

He continued: “Tom has extensive financial and corporate experience and is extremely well-placed to support the ambitions we have set for Kier, and to generate new growth and value for all our stakeholders.”

Outgoing Simon Kesterton said: “When I joined Kier, there was a lot to do, but I saw great businesses with great people and the opportunity to deliver something special.

“I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved at Kier and for restoring trust and building confidence in the group.

“After six great years, and working with such a fantastic team, the time feels right to pass the baton and move on to my next challenge.”