Michael Howard is a seasoned civil engineering professional with over 30 years’ experience delivering complex infrastructure projects across both public and private sectors. He has played a central role in the company’s growth over the past three decades, shaping project strategy, overseeing delivery, and ensuring works are completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest standards of quality and sustainability.

Known for his positive and collaborative leadership style, Michael guides multidisciplinary teams to overcome challenges with confidence and find practical, innovative solutions. His deep technical expertise, combined with a focus on programme management and long-term performance, ensures that HCE consistently delivers project solutions that stand the test of time and contribute to the company’s reputation for excellence.

A qualified accountant with more than 25 years’ experience across construction and finance, Gerard plays a pivotal role in strengthening the Group’s financial performance and supporting sustainable growth. With extensive expertise in project finance, cost control and commercial management, he ensures that schemes are delivered both profitably and responsibly. Gerard promotes a culture built on accountability, transparency and collaboration, providing clear financial leadership that underpins informed decision-making and long-term business success.

Peter Howard has been with HCE since graduating in Quantity Surveying from Leeds Metropolitan University, starting as a Quantity Surveyor and developing a strong commercial and operational foundation across a range of projects. Now Pre-Construction Director, he plays a key role in shaping early project solutions to support successful delivery.

Client-focused and solution-oriented, Peter combines operational and commercial insight to improve planning, cost certainty, and risk management, helping drive smoother project delivery and stronger commercial performance across the business.

With over 60 years of experience in the construction industry, Gerard brings an exceptional depth of knowledge, particularly in complex drainage works and infrastructure challenges. Highly practical and solutions-driven, he has a longstanding reputation for developing innovative approaches to overcome technically demanding projects. Gerard sets uncompromising standards in quality and workmanship, leading by example through his strong work ethic and commitment to excellence. Even at 77, he continues to play an active role in supporting the business, often being the first onsite and demonstrating an enduring passion for the industry that inspires those around him.

Amanda has been with HCE for over 11 years and plays a central role in keeping the office running smoothly. As Office Manager and PA to the Directors, she provides vital day-to-day support to the leadership team while overseeing the coordination of office operations.

Often the first point of contact for visitors and staff, Amanda is known for her friendly, approachable and helpful manner. She assists with a wide range of administrative, logistical and personnel matters. Her organisation, reliability and positive attitude make her a valued member of the HCE team and an important part of maintaining an efficient and welcoming workplace.

With extensive experience in delivering quality and safety on many schemes. Andrew is a certified IOSH member. He provides Health, Safety, Quality and Environmental support, assistance, and advice to all staff – especially the site management – and promotes the pursuit of excellence and improvement of HSQE throughout the company. Our excellent HSQE record reflects Andrew’s long-term commitment to continual improvement, raising awareness of Health, Safety and Environmental issues among directly employed staff as well as subcontracted employees across our sites.

James has been with HCE since 2005 and brings over 20 years of experience in the civil engineering sector. Over the course of his career with the company, he has progressed through a range of roles, developing strong leadership and operational expertise across complex schemes. Over the years, he has successfully delivered numerous multi-million-pound projects.

Now Contracts Manager, James plays a key role in overseeing project delivery and supporting teams to achieve successful outcomes. Known for his approachable and collaborative leadership style, he works closely with colleagues and project teams to ensure schemes are delivered safely, efficiently and to the highest standards of quality, programme and commercial performance.

With an impressive CV including extensive earthworks experience in addition to delivery of complex highway schemes, Tony is the key person coordinating any design and delivery of pre-contract requirements and progressing the project to delivery on site. With over 20 years’ experience in construction, Tony is a highly respected and extremely competent member of our team delivering complex multi-phased Main Contractor Projects aided by his broad knowledge of the NEC Contract.

Tom Barrett brings over 20 years of civils experience, working successfully as both a Sub-Contractor and Principal Contractor across roads, sewers, RC works, and wider infrastructure projects. Known for his ability to programme, manage, and deliver works on time and within budget, Tom maintains the highest professional standards in every role. Loyal, competent, and highly dependable, he is a key asset to any project team and consistently contributes to the smooth and efficient delivery of complex schemes.

Steve Poulson is an experienced Project Manager with over 37 years in the construction and civil engineering sector. Beginning his career working on the tools, he has progressed through supervisory and management roles, developing extensive practical and operational expertise across a wide range of projects.

Now a key member of the HCE team, Steve leads the successful delivery of infrastructure, commercial, industrial and residential schemes. Known for his strong leadership and collaborative approach, he works closely with multi-disciplinary teams to deliver projects safely, efficiently and to the highest standards of quality, sustainability and programme performance.

Steve Dakin has been with HCE since 2009, joining the company as a pipelayer after discovering a strong passion for the civil engineering sector. Through dedication and consistent performance, he progressed into supervisory and site management roles, building strong operational experience across a range of complex projects.

Now Contracts Manager, Steve plays a key role in leading project delivery, ensuring works are completed safely, efficiently, and to the highest quality standards. Known for his proactive approach and strong focus on team development, he has successfully delivered several multi-million-pound schemes while supporting the growth and performance of the teams he manages.

Simon Lock joined HCE in 2022 and leads the finance function, managing a team of seven and overseeing the company’s financial strategy and operations. With a career spanning senior finance roles across DonElec Group, Erris Homes, and TLP Chartered Accountants, he brings extensive experience in financial management, reporting, audit, and operational planning.

In his role at HCE, Simon has implemented improved financial systems, strengthened forecasting and cashflow management, and enhanced collaboration with auditors and funders. Known for his analytical insight and collaborative approach, he ensures financial stability, supports strategic decision-making, and contributes to the efficient and effective running of the business.

Brian Barton has been with HCE since 2020 and brings extensive experience across civil engineering and renewable energy projects. Beginning his career as a Site Engineer and Site Agent, he later spent eight years delivering wind farm projects, gaining hands-on experience across all stages from site mobilisation to turbine erection, commissioning, and client handover.

Following a four-year period managing research projects with Sheffield University, Brian returned to civil engineering, focusing on project procurement and bid management. As Pre-Contracts Manager, he now leads the successful management of submissions and tenders across projects of all sizes and sectors. Known for his detailed understanding of construction processes and proactive approach to work winning, Brian helps ensure HCE continues to secure and deliver high-quality projects efficiently and effectively.

Chris Foote joined HCE in 2005 as a Site Manager and, over the years, has progressed through the business to his current role as Estimator. Drawing on his hands-on construction experience, Chris provides detailed and accurate estimates that support the successful planning and delivery of major projects.

Known for his practical insight and attention to detail, he works closely with project teams to ensure bids are both competitive and achievable, helping to secure high-quality work and contribute to the ongoing success of HCE.