Laing O’Rourke appoints chief people officer

Laing O’Rourke has appointed Wayne Davies (pictured) as chief people officer (CPO), starting 12th January 2026. 

Davies will lead the global people strategy for the business, focusing on capability, talent pipeline, inclusion, transformation and keeping people central to operations. 

He will work with leadership and people teams to help Laing O’Rourke stay attractive to new talent in the industry.

Davies has experience in manufacturing, aviation, healthcare, infrastructure, energy distribution, transportation and financial services. 

He spent 15 years in HR leadership roles at General Electric across global assignments, led HR at Emirates Airline and worked on a major Middle Eastern construction Giga project. 

Most recently, he was chief human resources officer in a private equity backed services business.

Davies said: “I’m delighted to be joining Laing O’Rourke at such an exciting and ambitious moment for the business. 

“Throughout my career I’ve been driven by the belief that empowered, well‑supported people are the foundation of exceptional performance. 

“I have long admired the innovative DNA, entrepreneurial spirit and values-based leadership that is synonymous with Laing O’Rourke.”

Davies added: “I look forward to partnering with colleagues across the organisation to build our capability, strengthen our culture, and help ensure that our teams continue to deliver outstanding outcomes for our clients and communities.”

Cathal O’Rourke, group CEO at Laing O’Rourke, said: “I am excited for Wayne to join our business and the group executive committee. 

“He brings an outstanding track record leading people functions across complex, international organisations. 

“His experience in transformation, organisational and talent development will help us deliver on our ambitions as we step up to drive a new delivery paradigm for the construction industry.”