Kilnbridge Appoints New CEO

Kilnbridge, a leading civil and structural engineering contractor, today announced a significant transition in its executive leadership team. Founder and CEO Dermot McDermott has taken up the role of Chairman. Concurrently, the company has appointed Owen Dannatt as the new CEO, effective immediately. 

Under McDermott’s 33-year leadership, Kilnbridge has experienced remarkable growth and success, solidifying its position as a key player in the UK-built environment. Its flagship projects include viaduct, tunnel and bridge structures for HS2, major structures at Hinkley Point Nuclear Power Station, concrete structures for London’s Stratford Waterfront Development, and several major stations on the Crossrail programme. McDermott’s strategic vision, dedication, and leadership have been instrumental in driving the company’s expansion and establishing its reputation for excellence.  

Dermot McDermott said, “Assuming the role of Chairman at Kilnbridge is a natural evolution of the strategic changes in our business over the last few years, especially the transition to employee ownership in 2021. My personal priority has been ensuring that we are planning for the future of the business and its people. I am immensely proud of what we have achieved as a company, and I am excited to continue contributing to Kilnbridge’s success in this new capacity.” 

Taking the helm as the new CEO, Owen Dannatt brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of leadership within the built environment. As a chartered civil engineer, his early career with Taylor Woodrow was focused on the delivery of major infrastructure projects such as King’s Cross Underground Station. Owen subsequently worked in Deloitte’s real estate advisory team on construction mergers and acquisitions, and on commercial property restructuring. Over the last 15 years Owen has held various executive management positions on real estate development projects, many involving infrastructure and commercial interfaces, including as an Advisory Board member for The Shard, and as COO at Sellar. 

“I am thrilled to join Kilnbridge as the new CEO,” said Owen Dannatt. “I am deeply committed to building upon the strong foundations laid by Dermot and the entire team. Our valued customers will remain our focus as we continue to innovate in delivering excellence for them, and grow the business.” 

The appointment of Owen Dannatt as CEO marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter for Kilnbridge. With a strong leadership team in place, the company is poised to capitalise on new opportunities, expand its market presence, and deliver exceptional value to its customers and stakeholders.