Sir Robert McAlpine appoints new Health Sector MD as healthcare investment gathers pace

By Danny BallPublished On: June 8th, 2026Categories: Top Stories

Sir Robert McAlpine has appointed Simon Kydd as its new Health Sector Managing Director, as the contractor positions itself to support major investment in the UK’s healthcare estate and the delivery of the Government’s New Hospital Programme.

Kydd joined the business on 1 June, succeeding Stuart McArthur, who is stepping down after a decade in senior healthcare leadership roles at the contractor.

The appointment comes at a significant time for the healthcare construction sector, with long-term public investment programmes creating opportunities across hospital, healthcare and specialist medical infrastructure projects.

New leadership for growing healthcare pipeline

Kydd brings extensive experience in healthcare and major project delivery, having previously held senior positions at Balfour Beatty and Wates before leading the healthcare sector at WSP for the past eight years.

Commenting on his appointment, Simon Kydd said: “I am thrilled to be joining Sir Robert McAlpine at such an exciting time for the UK health sector, with the New Hospital Programme underpinning investment and offering the opportunity to reshape healthcare delivery models.

“Sir Robert McAlpine’s healthcare expertise is recognised nationally, as is IHP, the industry-leading joint venture between VINCI Building and Sir Robert McAlpine.

I look forward to building on this strong foundation and capitalising on the opportunities presented by increased investment in the health estate.”

Healthcare has become an increasingly important market for major contractors, with the New Hospital Programme expected to drive substantial investment in new facilities and the modernisation of existing NHS infrastructure over the coming years.

Leadership transition follows decade of healthcare growth

Kydd takes over from Stuart McArthur, who has played a key role in the development of Sir Robert McAlpine’s healthcare offering and its joint venture with VINCI Building, IHP.

During his tenure, the business expanded its healthcare portfolio while helping to deliver projects during the COVID-19 pandemic and strengthening its position in the sector.

Reflecting on his time with the business, Stuart McArthur said: “I’m delighted to welcome Simon into the business, knowing that his experience, industry insight and network, combined with the strength of Sir Robert McAlpine’s delivery teams, will continue to drive innovation and success in our healthcare offering.

“It has been an immensely rewarding 10 years, with highlights including the sector’s response to the pandemic and the continued evolution of IHP. Our work on the New Hospital Programme, including involvement in the Hospital 2.0 Alliance, provides a fitting platform as I move on to a new challenge.”