CRH, the FTSE 100-listed construction materials group, has made a significant move with the election of W. Anthony (Tony) Will to its Board of Directors, set to take effect from July 1, 2026. This strategic appointment will bolster CRH's leadership as it continues to focus on modern infrastructure projects and sustainable growth, with Mr Will joining at an opportune time given the company's plans to capitalise on significant demand trends in this space.
Mr Will brings a wealth of experience from his distinguished career in the industrial sector. He served as President, Chief Executive Officer, and board member of CF Industries Holdings, Inc., a major manufacturer of hydrogen and nitrogen products, from 2014 until his retirement earlier in 2026. His tenure at CF Industries, which began in 2007, saw him hold various crucial leadership positions across corporate development, manufacturing, and distribution, demonstrating a deep understanding of large-scale industrial operations.
Richie Boucher, Chairman of CRH, welcomed the new appointment, highlighting Mr Will's extensive leadership experience, proven track record in strategic execution, and profound expertise in operational discipline. This, he said, would be highly relevant to CRH's ongoing strategy as it seeks to deliver long-term value for its shareholders.
Before his time at CF Industries, Mr Will was a partner at Accenture LLP, a global management consulting firm. His diverse career also includes roles at Sears, Roebuck and Company, Fort James Corporation, Boston Consulting Group, and Motorola, providing him with a broad perspective on business operations and strategic development. He currently serves as a Director for Union Pacific Corporation and previously held a directorship at Olin Corporation.
In response to his election, Mr Will commented on his honour to join the CRH Board, acknowledging the company's strong market position and clear strategic direction. He expressed his eagerness to collaborate with the board and management team to support the company's long-term value creation and sustainable growth initiatives.
CRH, an S&P 500 Index member, operates across 4,000 locations with a team of 83,000 people, providing materials critical for transportation, water, and reindustrialisation projects globally. This appointment comes as CRH continues to position itself as a key player in the building materials sector, particularly with increasing global focus on infrastructure development and modernisation.