A leading figure in Plymouth’s construction community, Andrew Gilbert, is to retire in April 2026 after more than two decades with Ward Williams and a career that has helped shape some of the city’s best-known projects.
Andrew has supported the delivery of projects that have had a lasting impact on the city. These include developments across the dockyards, Royal William Yard, the University of Plymouth, major healthcare schemes and landmark developments for Plymouth City Council.
Born and raised in Plymouth, Andrew attended Sutton High School and Devonport High School before studying and working in London. He joined Ward Williams in 2003 and went on to become Regional Partner, playing a central role in the growth of both the business and its presence in the South West.
Andrew said: “Plymouth has always meant a huge amount to me. It is a city with real character, real resilience and real pride. I have felt incredibly lucky to spend so much of my career helping projects happen here.”
He added: “Getting projects done in Plymouth is not always easy. There are challenges around viability and geography. But when you have passion, resilience and a shared purpose to give something back, you can make great things happen.”
Among the projects closest to Andrew’s heart are:
- The Box, delivered during the Covid period and now recognised as an award-winning civic asset.
- Lighthouse Labs, which transformed an engineering warehouse into a 100,000 sq ft Covid facility in just 16 weeks.
- Garrison Close, Devonport – Pioneering sustainable affordable homes
“It is not just about fantastic buildings. It is about creating places that people can use, live in and feel happy in, places that provide security and homes for people who need them. To walk past and think, ‘we did that’, means a great deal.”
When Andrew joined the company, Ward Williams had three offices. Today, it has eight offices across the UK and is recognised as a trusted partner on major projects nationwide. Andrew leaves behind a strong South West regional team of 85 people, including 16 apprentices, and says he is proud of the business that has been built for the future.
Ward Williams, Senior Partner, James Beckly said:
“Under his leadership, Ward Williams strengthened; relationships deepened, delivery sharpened, reputation reinforced. His delivery was not via grand gestures, but through consistent, thoughtful leadership.
“Meanwhile, Andrew’s contribution to Plymouth is written in the built environment of the city. Andrew built a reputation for bringing people together and staying focused on solutions, even when projects become complex. Many of the projects Andrew worked on standout not simply for their complexity, but for what they represent. Not just buildings, but places, community impact writ large.”
