Network Plus has announced the appointment of Kevin Fowlie as chief executive officer – taking over the role from co-founder Dan Holland.

With a team of more than 5,000 operating out of 85 regional offices and depots, Network Plus is a utility and infrastructure service provider of repair, maintenance and construction services across the UK’s water, wastewater, gas, power and transportation networks.

Fowlie takes over as CEO with immediate effect following a phased handover of six months with Holland remaining with the company’s board and as a non-executive director.

Network Plus appointed Fowlie as chief operating officer from United Utilities in April 2023, shortly after the company’s investment from OMERS Private Equity.

During this time, the business has continued its impressive growth trajectory with significant new framework wins with clients including National Grid Electricity Distribution, Northumbrian Water, UK Power Networks and United Utilities plus the acquisitions of AC Landscapes and Littlewood Fencing.

Dan Holland said: “Over the past 18 months I have worked closely with the board to identify a successor and I’m pleased to announce Kevin as CEO.

“This is a watershed moment for our industry, with unprecedented levels of committed investment in critical water and energy infrastructure to deliver net zero, environmental and sustainability goals.

“Network Plus is evolving to meet the demands and opportunities of our clients and Kevin is the right person to lead the business during this next phase of growth. I look forward to supporting him, the board and the entire organisation in the years ahead.”

Kevin Fowlie added: “I’m delighted to be appointed CEO and to partner with OMERS and the wider shareholder group.

“Under Dan’s leadership, Network Plus has become the leading UK infrastructure services business with a reputation for exceptional client service delivered by our 5,000 colleagues.

“This is a great platform from which to serve the growing demand in our existing core markets of water, power and gas and to expand into adjacent markets for the repair, maintenance and improvement of critical UK infrastructure.”