Edinburgh-based upmarket home builder Cala has promoted Neil Riddell to Managing Director for its East of Scotland business, which spans Edinburgh, Lothians, Perth and Kinross, Fife and the Scottish Borders.
“Neil takes on the role following a successful period as Construction Director and key board member for Cala’s West of Scotland business,” said Cala.
“Since joining Cala in August 2025, Neil has established himself as a respected leader, recognised for his collaborative approach, strong operational focus, delivery, and extensive industry expertise.
“Prior to joining Cala, Neil spent 22 years with Taylor Wimpey, advancing through a range of operational roles before progressing to Production Director.
“This wealth of construction experience, combined with his proven track record of leading high-performing teams to deliver quality homes and exceptional service, makes Neil ideally placed to lead Cala Homes East into its next chapter.
“Cala East is an established successful business and Neil’s focus will be on building on these solid foundations by further strengthening operational discipline, driving enhanced performance and ensuring a sustainable, long-term delivery profile.”
Cala Group was acquired in September 2024 from Legal & General Group Plc by investment firm Sixth Street Partners and Patron Capital, a pan-European institutional investor focused on property-backed investments. The sale had an enterprise value of £1.35 billion.
Cala said its East business is currently delivering more than 1,600 private homes and 290 affordable homes, across 12 developments including sites at Hillside Gardens in Aberdour, Craighall Village in Millerhill, and Rosebery Wynd in South Queensferry.
Its pipeline of future sites includes Blindwells in East Lothian (134 homes), alongside proposals for a further 210 homes at Raw Holdings and 87 homes at Campsfield, both in East Calder.
Riddell said: “I’m incredibly proud to take on the role of Managing Director for Cala Homes (East). Having experienced first-hand the strength of Cala’s people, culture and commitment to quality since joining the business, I’m excited to work alongside the talented East team to build on its remarkable track record.
“There is a fantastic opportunity to continue providing exceptional homes and places that our customers and local communities can be proud of, while ensuring Cala East remains well placed for sustainable, long-term delivery across the region.
“Cala East has a proud history of close collaboration with landowners and partners to bring residential developments to fruition, and I am looking forward to working with them to secure new land opportunities throughout the region.”
Cala CEO Tom Nicholson said: “Neil has made a significant contribution since joining Cala and has earned the respect of colleagues across the business through his leadership, expertise and commitment to delivering excellence. His appointment reflects the depth of talent we have within Cala and our commitment to developing our people.