Barratt appoints group HR director

Barratt has appointed Sally Austin as its group HR director.

Reporting to chief executive David Thomas, Austin joins from Wincanton, a supply chain partner for British business. Here she was chief people officer from 2019 to 2023. Previously she was group HR director for construction and engineering firm Costain Group.

Austin began her HR career at BAE Systems and Eaton Corporation; she held HR roles across Europe, the Middle East and Africa. Her career has seen her hold HR director posts in the retail, energy and financial services sectors. She is also chair of Warwick Schools Foundation.

Austin will continue Barratt’s people strategy, focusing on diversity and inclusion, engagement, talent management and employee health and wellbeing.

She said: “I am delighted to be joining Barratt. It’s clear the business has strong values and a positive culture, created by great people across the UK. I’m looking forward to developing its industry-leading people strategy, creating an environment where everyone can excel.”

David Thomas, ceo, commented: “Sally is an extremely experienced and talented HR director. Her experience spanning logistics, engineering and construction complements housebuilding well and as we manage the current downturn in the market Sally helps strengthen our team …