Forecourt operator Ascona Group has appointed Ian Richards as director of construction and infrastructure.
Effective from November 1 2021, Richards will report directly to the chief executive and will support the leadership team in achieving Ascona’s growth strategy of reaching 300 sites across the country within the next five years.
He will also oversee all matters of construction and infrastructure, managing development projects across the portfolio to ensure they are delivered in a “safe and timely manner to the highest possible standards.”
Richards joins following an extensive career in the downstream oil industry, having previously worked for Elf Oil, Total UK and Rontec.
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In his previous roles, he was responsible for managing large scale strategic rebuild and refurbishment projects, leading engineering teams and managing and delivering multi-million pounds investment projects.
“I am delighted to welcome Ian to Ascona,” Ascona Group chief executive officer Darren Briggs said.
“He brings a wealth of relevant experience from across our industry and the excellent management skills needed to deliver extensive building projects.
“He joins at an exciting point in our journey as we progress the next stage of our growth strategy. I look forward to working with him as we build momentum in our ambition and take Ascona to 300 sites across the UK.”
Richards added: “I am very excited to be joining Ascona, a business I know well and have watched closely as it has grown into the nationwide business it is today.
“I am greatly looking forward to working with Darren and his team as they take Ascona and its unique customer offer to many more people across the country.”
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