Alain Michaelis has decided to step down as chief executive officer and director at Keller Group PLC after mutual agreement with the board, the company announced on Sept. 30.

“Alain has done a tremendous job over the last four years,” said Peter Hill, chairman. “The board and I would like to thank him for his enormous contribution in evolving Keller into the more integrated and professional organization it is today and overseeing what will be the transformation of Keller North America. Having provided these foundations for Keller’s future success, Alain has decided now is the right time to step down and allow his successor to lead the next stage of Keller’s development. The board looks forward to working with the executive team as we focus even harder on driving financial performance and growing shareholder value.”

Michael Speakman, chief financial officer, became interim CEO on Oct. 1, with Mark Hooper, group financial controller, assuming the role of interim CFO. Michaelis will remain available to the company until the end of 2019 to ensure a smooth transition.

“It has been a privilege to lead this great and unique company through an important phase of our evolution,” Michaelis said. “I wish all those in the whole Keller community the best for the future.”

The process of recruiting a permanent successor for Michaelis will be led by Keller’s Nominations Committee.

Keller offers the construction and civil engineering sectors a variety of ground engineering services. It has more than $2 billion in annual revenue and thousands of employees worldwide. For more information about Keller Group, visit www.keller.com.