Construction company Leighs has announced André Lovatt as its new chief executive, effective 23 June 2025.
He replaces Gary Walker who has resigned to spend more time with his family and pursue a change of direction after 35 years in the industry.
The company says Lovatt brings a wealth of experience and strong, positive leadership skills to the role.
He is currently chief infrastructure officer of KiwiRail and previously held a similar role at Auckland Airport. Before shifting to Auckland in 2018, Lovatt was chief executive at the Arts Centre of Christchurch Trust Te Matatiki Toi Ora and was a board member at Christchurch Airport.
An engineer, he has also held leadership positions in Australia and Singapore and led Arup to win the Marina Bay Sands development.
Anthony Leighs, who founded the company in 1995 and will next month become chair, says in a statement he’s thrilled with Lovatt’s appointment.
“I’m confident that he will lead Leighs superbly well and, in doing so, continue our growth as a leading constructor of social infrastructure and creator of real estate assets. A real people person, he has an excellent track record in leading large teams across Asia Pacific and is highly-regarded for his supportive and encouraging approach.”
Lovatt will be based in Leighs’ Auckland office and will travel regularly to Christchurch.
Andre Lovatt. Image supplied.
