A CITY construction firm has appointed a new executive director.

City Building has announced that Alan Burns will drive forward the organisation as it seeks to take a growing share of the renewables sector.

Mr Burns replaces Dr Graham Paterson, who has retired from the business, along with Sharon McGrath, who was Head of Corporate Services.

Burns, who began his career 30 years ago as an apprentice blacksmith in a precursor to City Building, was appointed by the organisation’s board following an open selection process.

As part of his new role, Burns has been reviewing the firm’s operations in home renewables, with a view to becoming a leading player in the sector.

He said: “The business has been left in a strong position by Graham and Sharon, so it is my job to ensure there is stability and continued employment for our workforce.

“With COP26 taking place in Glasgow in November we are ramping up considerably our renewables workstream.

“We recently seconded an employee from construction into renewables and design to help us consider any new skills our trades require to take advantage of renewables opportunities. We have also added a renewables element to our training college both in its construction and the skills we will deliver to our workforce.

“Exciting work is already underway in Glasgow to retrofit existing homes with green technologies, such as solar panels and ground source heating, that will reduce fuel poverty and carbon emissions. It is a just transition, which ties directly into our unique social ethos.

“Increasing adoption of renewable technologies won’t just create a better environment, they will also create jobs and better communities.  So, there’s lots of potential for an organisation like ours.”