CRAIG Lynes has been appointed managing director of CALA Homes (East), succeeding David McGrath who was named regional chairman earlier this year.
CALA Homes (East), which covers south and east Scotland from its Falkirk offices, is the homebuilder’s largest region across the UK and has a workforce of 190 people. The developer employs more than 600 contractors at any given time, currently across 12 sites, including The Crescent at Donaldson’s and the refurbishment of the former Boroughmuir School.
Craig (39) has been with CALA for 22 years, starting straight from school in quantity surveying while completing a degree at Edinburgh Napier University. He later moved to CALA’s land team, which identifies and advances future sites, working towards planning approval and land purchase.
In 2009, Craig joined the CALA East board as land director and has since been a part of many CALA developments in the region, including Waterfront Plaza in Leith.
He said, “I’m very aware that I’m taking on the new role against the extremely challenging backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic. As with most sectors, this has majorly impacted property and housebuilding. While we can’t control external factors, there is a massive opportunity for positive change. We have sped up our adoption of technology and it’s forced us all to embrace new, better ways of working. The team in the east has so far risen to this challenge and we’re adopting new practices that will improve the business.”
Craig, an Edinburgh native, praised his predecessor, David McGrath, whose six-year tenure delivered a period of ‘substantial growth’ for the business. Craig added, “That enables us to go forward in these challenging times and be bold in our plans. Simply put, we want to continue to provide new homes and developments that meet and exceed the expectations of our discerning customers. I want to ensure we create the most positive possible working environment that enables our individuals to be authentic in their style and feel empowered to constantly challenge themselves, within a team working ethos focused on operational excellence.”
David McGrath joined the CALA East commercial team in 2005. He was appointed MD in 2014 and promoted to regional chairman in March this year, He now oversees all three of CALA’s regional operating businesses in Scotland (East, West and North), and two in England.
David McGrath said, “Craig is the perfect successor to take CALA Homes (East) forward as we move forward after lockdown and I’m delighted to see him secure the role. Craig brings a wealth of experience but also has the energy for the role and the vision to bring the team with him. He has seen the business evolve and adapt over the years and has proven to be an excellent leader. Craig has risen through the ranks and this appointment is further testament to our culture at CALA, as well as our passion for development and talent retention.”
