CED Ltd, one of the UK’s top names in hard landscaping in natural stone, has a new Managing Director in Giles Heap, who is taking over from his father, Michael Heap.

Michael has headed the company since 1975, expanding it from its base in Grays, Essex, to become a national operation with five depots, including one in Northern Ireland. Giles joined him in the business 18 years ago.

Giles told NSS: “I am very proud to be given the opportunity to take on this responsibility and I am thoroughly looking forward to the challenge of ensuring that CED carries on as one of the most respected, successful and influential family-owned companies in the British stone industry.”

Michael, an undisputed expert in the use of stone, will continue in the role of Chairman of the company, concentrating on the more specialist projects that CED is known for, such as the Geological Path at the British Geological Survey (see NSS June 2012), as well as sitting on the British Standards Committee updating BS 7533, the standard for stone setts and concrete pavers, among his many other long-term projects.

Officially handing over to his son, Michael said: “Succession in a family business is all about planning and long-term continuity, retaining the knowledge and understanding that comes with a specialist company. I am delighted that Giles has shown real enthusiasm and interest in the business and felt it appropriate that he took over the management reins at this time. I know I shall not be short of interesting things to do!”