Ground Control, the UK’s leading supplier of award-winning landscaping and maintenance services, has announced the appointment of a new managing director, with Marcus Watson handing over to Jason Knights in January 2021.
Marcus’ tenure has seen Ground Control win a range of prestigious awards including the Queen’s Award for Enterprise in 2016. He continues to be a significant shareholder and Non-Exec Director, helping to steer Ground Control in the future.
“Since joining in 2011, Marcus has led us through a period of significant growth and change,” said Ground Control CEO Simon Morrish. “His leadership has overseen continued phenomenal growth, as well as significant diversification and de-risking of our core capabilities.”
“Marcus has been instrumental in driving our core purpose, Caring for the Environment, as well as putting people at the centre of everything we do, and I would like to take this opportunity to thank him for his hard work and dedication which played a key role in establishing Ground Control’s leading position in our industry.”
Jason Knights joins Ground Control from SES Engineering Services where for the last 4 years he has been Managing Director. SES Engineering Services were acquired by the Wates Group in November 2016 and Jason was part of the Wates Construction Board during the acquisition and the also the newly formed Wates Construction Group Board from 2016 to his eventual departure in September 2020.
Jason joined Ground Control in September and has spent the time gaining an understanding of the company’s operations, customers and processes. Jason has now formally taken over the Managing Director role and will continue to work closely with his predecessor to ensure a smooth transition.
“Going forward we will continue to heavily invest in our people and innovation whilst following a clear and simple plan to achieve growth and a business returning long term shareholder value. I am really passionate that we remain true to our values and vision, learning the lessons of the past and embracing the opportunities of the future,” said Jason Knights.
“Our colleagues have adapted admirably to support customers through this challenging period. This gives us a fantastic platform to achieve our significant growth ambitions over the next 5 years, helping our clients achieve their environmental ambitions and helping the UK transition to an exciting and environmentally sustainable recovery.”
