HS2’s land and property director has left the project to take up a newly-created role in charge of defence at Sir Robert McAlpine.
Mike Hickson has joined the tier one contractor as managing director of defence, as part of the firm’s strategy to grow its infrastructure business unit.
Hickson has spent more than nine years at HS2 after a military career including a spell as
director of the British Army’s Royal Logistic Corps.
Hickson said: “Sir Robert McAlpine is a household name, renowned for its infrastructure work. I look forward to working closely with the team to continue that legacy and deliver world-class infrastructure for defence projects.”
Sir Robert McAlpine executive managing director of infrastructure Tony Gates said: “We are delighted to welcome Mike to lead our defence team as well as set and deliver our Defence strategy.
Mike’s career to date and specialist knowledge of the sector demonstrates he will be an invaluable asset to Sir Robert McAlpine and the right fit to build our defence business.”
Hickson brings 30 years of military experience to the new role, and saw active service in Afghanistan and Iraq. As a Brigadier, he was appointed chief logistician at PJHQ Northwood before taking up his role at the Royal Logistic Corps.
His appointment comes as part of an ongoing shake-up of Sir Robert McAlpine’s senior team following the sudden departure of chief executive Paul Hamer in February.
Later that month, the firm appointed former Keltbray executive Vip Gandhi as its new managing director for transport, along with two new framework directors.
