Staehr is set to join Kier in January 2026, taking a seat on the company’s executive committee and assuming leadership of its Regional Build, Strategic Projects, Kier Places, and KME operations.
A chartered civil engineer and Fellow of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), Staehr brings more than 17 years of experience from Laing O’Rourke, where he most recently served as one of its European delivery directors. His portfolio includes overseeing major projects across the justice, defence, healthcare, science, and education sectors, as well as managing MEP manufacturing operations.
He will succeed Stuart Togwell, who steps into the role of Kier Group chief executive on 1 November. In the interim, construction commercial director James Askew will serve as acting managing director until Staehr’s arrival.
Staehr will take charge of a division boasting a £4.5bn order book and approximately 200 live projects spanning England, Scotland, and Wales. Last year, Kier Construction delivered £1.9bn in revenue, completing the UK’s first all-electric prison at HMP Millsike, maintaining over 70,000 homes, and generating £275m in social value alongside 734 apprenticeships.
Togwell said: “Martin brings fresh thinking and a drive to make a meaningful difference within the construction industry”kier
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