Zander, who has been with Hillhouse Group for 13 years, will take on an expanded role overseeing asphalt production across the group’s five plants while leading the operational delivery of the new Edinburgh Asphalt facility ahead of commissioning and opening.

The appointment reflects Hillhouse Group’s continued investment in experienced people alongside major infrastructure, with Edinburgh Asphalt representing one of the Group’s most significant recent investments in asphalt production.

Zander joined Hillhouse in 2013 as asphalt plant supervisor at the group’s Cambuslang operation, arriving before the plant had even been constructed. His practical experience in building, upgrading and commissioning asphalt plants made him the ideal candidate to help establish the facility, before later leading the successful development of Hillhouse’s Alloa plant.

Zander Calderwood, asphalt production manager, Edinburgh Asphalt, said: “Edinburgh Asphalt is an exciting next step for Hillhouse and for me personally. I’ve been fortunate to be involved in developing new plants before, and it’s rewarding to see another major investment taking shape.

“The new facility gives us the opportunity to strengthen relationships with existing customers while supporting new projects across Edinburgh, the Lothians and even further out towards the Scottish Borders.

“It also complements our existing operations, giving customers even greater flexibility and improving how we serve the east of Scotland.”

Zander’s route into the industry was unconventional. After leaving school as early as he could, he began working at his family business specialising in civil engineering and groundworks, learning practical construction skills on site before moving into quarrying through another family connection.

Starting as a labourer, he quickly progressed through concrete production before discovering a passion for asphalt manufacturing. Working across every aspect of quarry operations, from crushing and screening to laboratory testing and plant maintenance, provided the technical grounding that has underpinned his career.

He said: “I was lucky to learn from some of the best people in the industry. Understanding every stage of the process gave me a really solid foundation and it’s something I’ve carried with me throughout my career.”

Today, Zander oversees production across five asphalt plants at four sites stretching from Troon and Cambuslang to Alloa and the new Edinburgh Asphalt operation.

His focus will now be on ensuring a successful commissioning process, building strong customer relationships and supporting Hillhouse’s contracting teams as the new facility expands the group’s reach across eastern Scotland.

Mark Munro, managing director of Hillhouse Quarry, said: “Zander has been instrumental in the growth of our asphalt business over the past 13 years. He combines exceptional technical knowledge with a genuine understanding of our customers and operations.

“As we prepare to open Edinburgh Asphalt, it is important that we have experienced leadership in place from day one. Zander has already played a key role in delivering successful new facilities for Hillhouse, and his experience will be invaluable as we continue to grow our presence across Scotland.”