Kier announces positive year

Graduate jobs provider Kier has overcome difficult market conditions to post a successful year, according to its chief executive.

John Dodds pointed to the organisation's 'product diversification' and 'cash positive' attitude after reporting an increase in its secured and probable order books for construction in the 12-month period up to June 30th 2009.

He remarked: 'This good performance is the result of our … spread of operations, the quality and commercial capability of our staff as well as our approach to risk management.'

Kier's building orders rose from £2.1bn in 2008 to £2.2bn this year, which represents over 90 per cent of its revenue targets for next year and half of its 2011 objectives.

Following the confirmation of the recent North Tyneside contract for £600m, the firm's support services contracts went up from £2bn last year to £2.3bn this fiscal period.

The ten-year deal with North Tyneside Council will see Kier maintain and repair the local body's social housing stock.