Mark Farmer steps back as Cast chief executive

Modern Methods of Construction campaigner Mark Farmer has stepped back as chief executive of the consultancy he co-founded 10 years ago.

Farmer will move from his current role at Cast to focus on board responsibility for driving the firm’s brand and future marketing strategy.

The firm has also announced it is opening a second office in Edinburgh, which will be headed by Cast director Chris Kerr, who is relocating to Scotland.

Cast advises developers, investors and policymakers on driving efficiencies in projects, focusing on modern methods of construction including modular.

A succession plan at the firm has seen another co-founder, Joe Thornton, replace Farmer as chief executive. 

Farmer said: “The last 10 years has seen Cast develop from a start-up to a highly respected and successful consultancy business whose brand is recognised all over the world. 

“Our business succession plan will now underpin the next phase of our growth and create real opportunities for our talent pool. I am proud to have co-founded and led such a great business and I look forward to playing my part in the journey ahead, leveraging my position in the market to help shape growth and diversification.”

Thornton added: “We are a people business who help clients deliver amazing projects in an increasingly challenging market. Over the last 10 years we have enabled the development of some exceptional professionals and I’m excited to be working with them to support our clients as I lead the next evolution of Cast.”

Cast chairman Keith Brooks will also retire and take a career sabbatical, with the firm saying a non-executive chairman is to be appointed in due course.

Farmer, Thornton, chief operating officer Lilly Gallafent and chief financial officer Neil Brearley all remain owners of Cast.