Ex-John Laing head a ‘fit’ for contractor Kiewit

A public-private partnership (PPP) professional who headed North America for John Laing has joined Kiewit Corporation to bolster what the Omaha, Nebraska-based general contractor described as an effort to expand its presence in the region.

New hire James Bennett began working for John Laing in 2006, manning its Toronto-based operation before resigning in September 2010. For Kiewit, he will head business development for Kiewit Development Company, focusing on North America and holding the title of senior P3 executive, the company said.

For John Laing, Bennett served as investment director, helping the London-headquartered developer break into North America, Kiewit claimed in a press statement. John McArthur, president of Kiewit Development Company, credited Bennett, who began his career in construction management with Carillion Canada, with being a cultural match for Kiewit.

“[His] background in contracting is a great fit for Kiewit, where construction is such a core, fundamental component,” said McArthur, who will oversee Bennett.

At John Laing, Bennett was replaced by David Rushton. It is not clear why Bennett, who could not be reached for comment, resigned from John Lain. He had been doing freelance consulting work before joining Kiewit.

Prior to John Laing, Bennett worked for Carillion from 2001 to 2003, becoming a vice president with the company.