Keller appoints new CEO after Michael Speakman steps down on health grounds

The London-based company said it has appointed James Wroath, formerly CEO of logistics company Wincanton, effective 18 August.

It added that it “fully respects and supports” Speakman’s decision to step down. He will remain employed by Keller on an advisory basis.

Carl-Peter Forster, chair of Keller, said: “On behalf of the board and the Keller team, I would like to thank Michael for his outstanding leadership and immense contribution to the business since he joined the group in 2018, initially as CFO, then from 2019 as CEO. During this time he has led the group through a period of significant growth and development; rationalising the portfolio and improving the project execution across the business, resulting in a substantial uplift in the group’s performance and the delivery of improved returns.”

He added, “James is a proven FTSE CEO and successfully led Wincanton plc through a period of cultural and operational transformation, leading to the recent sale to GXO Logistics. He brings a strong track record of leading improved performance in geographically dispersed contracting businesses.”

Keller lays claim to being the world’s largest geotechnical specialist contractor and reported revenue of £2.99 billion (US$4.1 billion) in 2024. The group operates across five continents and has offices across Europe and North America, India, South East Asia, and Australia.

It is also involved in Saudi Arabia’s Neom project, where it has been working on the Trojena mountain ski resort and performed piling works on linear city The Line.

The company is due to announce its results for the six months to 30 June on 5 August 2025.