Denbury Homes has appointed a familiar face as its new CEO as the regional housebuilder looks to expand its operations.
Lee Barnard had worked with Denbury’s executive chairman James Hopkins for 23 years, leading the Hopkins Group before the sale of Hopkins Homes.
Denbury Homes evolved from Hopkins Homes’ former sister company Hopkins and Moore.
Lee said: “The progress Denbury Homes has made in the three years since the separation from Hopkins Homes has been impressive.
“Securing a major funding package and recognition as an HBF five-star rated builder has placed the company firmly on the regional map.”
Lee will work alongside Joshua Hopkins, who was recently promoted to Managing Director, overseeing day-to-day operations at the company while Josua will focus on land.
Denbury has secured a funding package from HSBC as it looks to increase its build rate by 250%, aiming to construct up to 450 homes a year by 2029.
The company launched its flagship development, St Edmunds Gate, in January this year.
Lee said: “St Edmunds Gate is a testament to our ambition – it will deliver in the region of 900 homes and contribute £15.5 million to the community through S106 payments.
“We now have two show homes open which embody the build quality and attention to detail which the entire team at Denbury Homes prides themselves on.
“The level of interest and the reservations we have secured so far demonstrate that our homes are appealing to both local buyers and those from further afield.”
The company has plans to reach far beyond its home county of Suffolk, recently launching projects in Essex and Cambridgeshire.
Lee said: “It’s fantastic to see our reputation proceeding us as we open sites beyond our traditional heartland.
“We build well-designed homes that are in keeping with the regional landscape and that is something that resonates with communities and homebuyers in any area.
“Joshua and his team are working to secure some very exciting opportunities to continue our expansion, so I’m delighted to have joined Denbury Homes at such a pivotal moment in its development.”