A CONSTRUCTION firm has appointed a new leader following the death of its well-known boss.

Andy Radcliffe has become chief executive at Esh Group, which has its head office in Bowburn, near Durham City.

His promotion comes after Brian Manning passed away following a short cancer battle.

Mr Radcliffe’s appointment forms part of a succession plan that was already in place to support Mr Manning’s retirement, which also includes John Davies taking on the newly-created role of chief operating officer.

The company says Mr Davies will fulfil the job alongside his existing position as managing director of Esh Construction.

Mr Radcliffe, who joined Esh in 2010 as chief financial officer, said he hopes to continue the company’s successes in memory of Mr Manning.

He said: “Brian was passionate about building a high-performing leadership team in readiness for his retirement.

“We have a huge sense of responsibility in taking up our new roles, and are committed in building upon Esh Group’s position as a high-quality construction company founded upon a strong balance sheet and cash position.

“We have a great team, with a wealth of talent and experience, and this puts us on an excellent footing to deliver the best service for clients.”

The succession plan was already in place when Mr Manning passed away last month, with the programme subsequently accelerated by the company’s board.

Mr Davies, who has worked for Esh Group for 27 years, having initially joined one of its founding businesses, Lumsden & Carroll, added he was keen to build on Mr Manning’s achievements too.

Mr Manning, who had recently celebrated his 60th birthday, began his career as a trainee site engineer at Monk Construction before joining Lumsden & Carroll and became managing director in 1991.

He was instrumental in the formation of Esh Holdings in 1999, the precursor to the Esh Group, and, in 2003, when the business outgrew its Esh Winning base, he oversaw its move to Bowburn.

He was also a keen supporter of the local skills agenda and oversaw the creation of the Esh Academy to help youngsters go from apprenticeships into full-time roles.