Marshalls has appointed former Ibstock Plc executive Jo Hodge as its new Chief People Officer as construction firms continue to focus on workforce development, leadership and retention across the sector.
Hodge joins the business after four years at Ibstock, where she served as Group People, Sustainability & Social Impact Director and was part of the executive leadership team.
Marshalls said Hodge will lead the group’s people strategy, with responsibility for colleague development, leadership capability and organisational culture.
The appointment comes as construction and manufacturing businesses face ongoing recruitment pressures, skills shortages and growing emphasis on workforce inclusion and long-term talent retention.
Hodge brings more than 25 years of experience across construction, logistics, financial services and manufacturing sectors, having previously held senior leadership positions at companies including Kraft Foods, Mondelez International, JDE Peet’s and Unipart Logistics.
She originally began her career as an apprentice at Cadbury.
Built environment diversity and inclusion experience
Alongside her executive career, Hodge is also a member of the advisory board for BPIC Network, which works to improve participation of ethnic minority groups across the built environment sector.
Commenting on the appointment, Hodge said: “I’m delighted to be joining Marshalls at such an important time for the business.
“Marshalls has a strong heritage, clear values and a genuine commitment to its people and culture, which really stood out to me.
“I’m looking forward to working with colleagues across the Group to build on that strong foundation and support the next stage of the company’s growth.”
Leadership sees people strategy as long-term growth priority
Simon Bourne, Chief Executive Officer at Marshalls, said Hodge’s appointment would support the company’s long-term strategy.
He said: “Jo brings extensive experience in people leadership, organisational development and sustainability, alongside a strong track record of building high-performing and inclusive cultures.
“Her broad cross-sector experience and strategic leadership are already proving a real asset to Marshalls as we continue to invest in our people and support the long-term growth of the business as part of our ongoing strategy.”
