Barhale is pleased to announce the appointment of Joe Solomon as Regional Director for the Eastern Region, marking the next step in a career that has been defined by adaptability, leadership and a strong focus on people.

Joe’s journey with Barhale began in 2012 when he joined through the Stars Referral Programme as a Quantity Surveyor. By 2014, he had progressed to Senior QS, delivering S101a schemes at Maskew Avenue and Thorpewood House in Peterborough. He then moved into commercial management roles within the @one Alliance, Anglian Water’s strategic partnership delivering complex capital projects, before stepping up as Head of Commercial for the region in 2021.

Reflecting on this trajectory, Joe says his progression has never been driven by a rigid career plan. “I’ve never been the type to map out the next 25 years. For me, it has always been about doing the best I can, spotting gaps and stepping in to fill them. That’s how the journey has unfolded.”

A Commercial Mindset with a People-First Approach

Coming from a strong commercial background, Joe brings a fresh perspective to the leadership team. He acknowledges that his early career, focused on major construction projects including airside developments around Heathrow, gives him a different lens on problem-solving. As Head of Commercial, Joe played a pivotal role in shaping strategy, driving efficiency and developing teams. One achievement stands out: “Negotiating two framework extensions across two alliances was a big win. But honestly, the real highlight was growing the team by 26 people and watching their development, that’s what stays with me.”

He admits that people engagement has been both the biggest challenge and the biggest reward. “Not everyone’s the same and that’s a good thing. Our mission and values only work when they land on an individual level. That’s when you get true buy-in.”

Leading the Eastern Region into a new era

Joe’s appointment is part of a carefully planned succession strategy following James Haddon’s move into Barhale’s new Director of Low Carbon Solutions role. For Joe, the priorities are clear: closing out AMP7, preparing for AMP8 and AMP9 and building an engaged, high-performing team.

“In the short term, it’s about managing the transition into AMP8. But the real focus is on people, creating a clear mission and vision for the region that everyone can connect with and rally behind,” he explains. “People want to feel seen and valued. Leadership is about making that happen.”

Chief Executive Martin Brown praised the appointment, saying:

“Joe has worked closely with James for many years and will continue to develop and grow our business within the Eastern Region. He has excellent relationships with key clients and partners and brings huge enthusiasm and experience to the role. This appointment is a great reflection of our strategy to recognise and promote talent from within.”

The person behind the role

Away from work, Joe is a devoted father to two boys, aged 14 and 11. “I’m a full-time parent and part-time taxi driver,” he jokes. He also serves as a trustee for The Lighthouse Centre, a charity supporting people in need and running a local food bank. With Chinese and Indian heritage but Norfolk-born, Joe has a love of culture and travel. Japan remains a favourite destination after a memorable visit.

Joe’s appointment signals not only continuity but also a new energy for Barhale’s Eastern Region. Combining commercial acumen with a genuine passion for people, he is ready to shape the future of the region and bring others along on the journey. Joe concludes with this final statement: “I want to build a high-performing, values-led team. It’s about engagement, collaboration and setting a vision that everyone believes in.”