Severfield Welcomes Simon Nicholas as New Chief Technical Officer

Severfield's Strategic Appointment

Severfield has recently appointed Simon Nicholas as its Chief Technical Officer (CTO) as of 9 November 2026. This move is part of the company's strategy to enhance its engineering leadership and bolster its operational capabilities across various regions, including the UK, Europe, and India.

Experience and Background

Simon Nicholas brings over 27 years of experience in the engineering sector to his new role. He has held significant positions that demonstrate his leadership and technical expertise:

• Global Operations Director at Surbana Jurong (2025-2026): Nicholas managed a team of 650 across 12 locations, overseeing operations in mechanical, electrical, and plumbing services as well as engineering design.
• Managing Director for the UK and Europe at Robert Bird Group: He held this position for eight years, where he was instrumental in driving the company's growth in the region.

His extensive background in structural engineering and international leadership is expected to play a crucial role in guiding Severfield's engineering and design initiatives.

Financial Context

Severfield's recent financial performance showcases a mixed picture. During the fiscal year 2026, the company's group revenue reached £454.3 million, a slight increase from £450.9 million the previous year. However, the underlying pre-tax profit saw a decline, falling to £10.5 million from £18.1 million. This financial backdrop highlights the need for strong leadership in engineering to navigate challenges and drive profitability.

Future Directions

With Simon Nicholas at the helm of engineering and design, Severfield aims to reinforce its position in the competitive construction market. His appointment is expected to support the company's ongoing projects and future ventures, aligning with its growth strategy.

In addition to internal changes, the construction industry is facing challenges, as seen with recent projects like the A38 scheme. After a budget overrun by contractor Octavius, the council plans to retender the project under a fixed-price NEC contract. This situation underscores the importance of effective project management and cost control, areas where Nicholas's expertise will be invaluable.

Severfield's decision to appoint Nicholas signals its commitment to strengthening its engineering capabilities and ensuring successful project delivery in a dynamic market.