Build UK represents clients, main contractors and trade associations including more than 11,500 specialist contractors. It works closely with the government and aims to improve the efficiency and delivery of construction projects by promoting collaboration across the industry’s supply chains.

Current BESA president John Norfolk welcomed the appointment of Mr Hopkinson and said he would be “a powerful advocate for specialist contractors on the Build UK board.”

Mr Norfolk continued: “His appointment is extremely timely as it is more important than ever that industry bodies and construction sectors work closely together. Closer collaboration and improved understanding between supply chain partners will be key to addressing the major challenges we all face. It will also be crucial if we are to sustain investment in building engineering projects after this prolonged period of economic uncertainty.

“Tim is a highly experienced business leader and negotiator who understands how major projects work and the importance of supply chain co-ordination. I’m sure that all the members of BuildUK will benefit from working with him.”

Mr Hopkinson is managing director of E Poppleton & Son and since completing an apprenticeship and MBA, has built up almost 40 years’ experience in the engineering, construction and building services sectors. He was BESA President from 2017-2019.