Scott takes reins at Maple Grove as Hirst departs

James Scott has been appointed as managing director of Eric Wright Group’s development arm, taking over from Karen Hirst who is leaving the business.

Hirst is leaving Maple Grove Developments after nine and a half years to pursue new challenges, the company said. She had been managing director since 2018, taking over from the retiring Chris Evenson.

In a post on LinkedIn, Hirst said she was “stepping away, proud of what we have developed and grateful for all the people I have worked alongside”.

Scott has been promoted to replace Hirst having joined Maple Grove Developments from Muse in 2021.

Since his arrival, Scott has worked across a large and varied pipeline that includes the 1.7m sq ft Lancashire Central industrial scheme, Hattersley Trade Park, and the £45m Animate leisure-led regeneration project in Preston.

Karen Hirst is leaving Maple Grove after nine and a half years. Credit: PNW

“I’m immensely proud to be taking on the role of managing director and would like to thank Jeremy [Hartley, Eric Wright Group chief executive] and the board for this incredible opportunity and to Karen for her commitment and leadership over the last nine years,” Scott said.

“I’m looking forward to continuing to work with my colleagues, clients and delivery partners to bring forward the exciting projects we have in place and to further growing the Maple Grove business.”

Hartley added: “We are very pleased to see James take on the role of managing director and look forward to working with him in this next chapter for Maple Grove. James brings significant experience and knowledge to the role and, with the support of both the wider Eric Wright Group, and his experienced team, he will no doubt ensure the business continues to deliver its existing projects whilst continuing to identify new development opportunities.”

He added: “I’d also like to express my personal gratitude to Karen Hirst for playing such a pivotal role in shaping the business to date and wish her every success in the next chapter of her career.”