5 min read | Published July 7th 2025 | Updated July 7th 2025 | James Osborne
- We’re pleased to announce two promotions and two new hires, strengthening our structure and team
- The restructure will enhance delivery, support growth, and maintain operational excellence
We’re pleased to announce two promotions and two new hires, as we refresh our structure and strengthen our team to enhance delivery, support growth, and maintain operational excellence.
In line with our ambition to reach £100m turnover within the next six years, the promotions and appointments will support our plans to scale while continuing to deliver best-in-class buildings, cabins, and structures for specialist industries.
Our new operations director
Joining us as operations director, after five months in the role on an interim basis, is Hayley Richardson. Her remit includes leading a team of four senior leaders across design and technical, commercial, construction, and pre-construction.
With over 30 years’ experience across construction, education, healthcare, and the charitable sector, Hayley brings a strong understanding of delivery from a customer perspective, helping drive continuous improvement across the business.
“After spending a few months getting to know the business and the brilliant team, I’m delighted to be joining Thurston on a permanent basis.
Everything I’ve seen so far has been really positive, and I know there’s a strong drive to keep improving and meet our ambitious growth plans.
As we aim to become the number one modular manufacturer in the country, I’m keen to use my insight into the customer journey to help deliver consistently high-quality products and projects.”
Refreshing our structure to deliver operational excellence
Alongside Hayley’s appointment, we’ve refreshed our structure to help us scale more effectively and deliver consistently high standards.
Reporting into the new structure are Marc Johnson, promoted to Head of Design and Technical, and Gary Robinson, now Pre-Construction Director.
Marc Johnson said: “It’s a privilege to lead the design team at such a pivotal time. We’re strengthening capabilities and embedding smarter processes to deliver more value.”
Gary Robinson added: “This role allows me to influence projects from the outset. Strong pre-construction planning is key to delivering at pace.”
The restructuring is further supported by Joanne Ainslie and Simon Shirtliffe, who have joined the commercial team as estimators.
Setting our standards higher
Also joining the team is Mike Langton, Head of Commercial, bringing extensive experience across both traditional and modular construction.
“Joining Thurston at a time of real momentum is exciting. We have a strong opportunity to grow the commercial function and support long-term, profitable growth.”
Meeting our ambition
Managing Director Matt Goff commented:
“I’m delighted to welcome Hayley permanently and Mike to the team. This new structure, led by a first-class team, will help us meet growing demand and unlock further opportunities as we scale the business.”
If you’d like to work with our team on modular projects across sectors from education to offshore, please get in touch.