Gretton will take over on 29 June as the UK\u2019s biggest drainage and wastewater maintenance specialist prepares for its next stage of growth following BlackRock\u2019s investment in the business last year.<\/p>\n
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<\/a><\/p>\nGretton will work alongside Earnshaw to ensure a smooth transition before formally taking charge at the end of June<\/p>\n<\/div>\n
Earnshaw, who joined Lanes in 1992, oversaw the specialist\u2019s expansion from a 15-strong workforce into a business employing more than 4,000 people with revenue of more than \u00a3650m.<\/p>\n
He will move into the newly-created role of vice-chairman for strategy.<\/p>\n
The leadership handover marks a significant milestone for the privately-owned contractor, which has strengthened its position in the wastewater and infrastructure services market in recent years.<\/p>\n
Gretton joins from Telent Technology Services, where she served as chief executive and recently led the business through its sale to M Group. Her background spans the delivery of critical infrastructure services across the UK and Ireland.<\/p>\n
Lanes said Gretton brings extensive experience of leading large-scale operational businesses, delivering organisational change and driving shareholder value.<\/p>\n
She said: \u201cI\u2019m excited to be joining Lanes Group at such an important time for the business. The company has a strong reputation, fantastic people and a clear commitment to customers. I\u2019m looking forward to building on that as we continue to grow and invest in the future.\u201d<\/p>\n
Earnshaw added: \u201cIt\u2019s been a privilege to lead Lanes Group and I\u2019m hugely proud of everything we\u2019ve achieved together. I\u2019m delighted that Jo is stepping in as CEO. She brings the right experience, energy and leadership to take the business forward. I\u2019m excited to see her lead Lanes Group into its next chapter.\u201d<\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n