Ray O’Rourke to become chair of Laing O’Rourke after Sir John Parker steps down

Sir John Parker (Image: Laing O’Rourke)

Sir John has held the post of chair of the company for eight years and will step down at the end of the group’s trading year on 31 March, although he will remain in an ambassadorial role.

Last year, Laing O’Rourke announced that Ray O’Rourke would hand over the role of chief executive officer to his son Cathal, while continuing to serve on the board as deputy chair.

Ray O’Rourke said, “I extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sir John for his contribution to our business. We are deeply grateful for his steadfast stewardship and tireless commitment which has been instrumental in bringing our vision and purpose to life.

“Testament to that commitment, Sir John has agreed to retain an ambassadorial role, which will ensure the company continues to benefit from his experience and wise counsel.”

Ray O’Rourke will take up the role of chair of the group from 1 April 2025. He added, “I am looking forward to working with my son, our group CEO, Cathal O’Rourke and our board members as we continue to implement our strategy to push the boundaries of modern construction – which is the only way to change the nature of the work we do.”

Sir John Parker said, “I am proud of my time as group chair of the Laing O’Rourke Corporation. I have always been struck by the high calibre of people who serve on the Laing O’Rourke board, on its executive committees and those people who deliver its projects across the UK, Middle East and Australia.

“They are driven by a sincere sense of purpose, confident in the knowledge the work they do every day, serves humanity and improves lives. I have every confidence that Laing O’Rourke will continue to build on its recent successes and achieve its goal to transform the business and the wider sector for future generations.

“I want to thank Ray and Cathal for their unwavering support, and all other members of the Board who have been quality professional colleagues of high-competence and integrity.”