Paul Cossell, vice chair of global construction specialists ISG, has been elected as the new chair of industry lobby group Build UK. Cossell replaces Andy Steele, formerly chief executive of Osborne, who stepped down in November 2021.

“We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Paul as our next chair,” said Suzannah Nichol, Build UK chief executive. “Having played a leading role in keeping the industry open and operating safely throughout the Covid-19 pandemic, Build UK has ambitious plans for 2022 including working with the public sector to implement the Construction Playbook, continuing the rollout of the Common Assessment Standard and addressing skills gaps by improving the journey from education into employment in the industry,” said Nichol.

Cossell has spent nearly 25 years at ISG and prior to taking on the new role of vice chair this month was CEO of the global construction specialist from 2016. During his time with the company, he has overseen the transformation of its office fit out business to become a market leader in the UK, as well as driving its entry into the international datacentre construction market and growth across the technology, science and health sectors in the UK and internationally.

Commenting on his appointment, Cossell said: “It is a privilege to be the new chair of Build UK. I believe passionately in the value of a powerful voice representing our industry at the highest levels. Throughout the pandemic, as we tackle the multi-generational challenge of building greener, better and faster and the associated need to attract the brightest and best talent into our industry, Build UK has proved to be a dynamic force for transformational change.”