The Evolution of Wills Bros

In 1972, the small town of Foxford in County Mayo, Ireland, became the birthplace of Wills Bros Ltd, a civil engineering venture started by two brothers, James and Charles Wills. What began as a modest operation focused on plant hire has, over five decades, transformed into a respected name in the civil engineering sector across the UK and Ireland.

This journey, marked by significant growth, technological innovation, and a steadfast adherence to family values, illustrates not just the evolution of a company but the enduring legacy of its founders.

Laying the Foundations

James and Charles Wills laid the foundation of their company on principles that have withstood the test of time: hard work, reliability, and a commitment to quality. Over the years, these principles have propelled Wills Bros from a local business to an industry leader with over 500 employees and an annual turnover reaching €240 million.

Their project portfolio demonstrates a broad capability, from major roadworks to intricate bridge constructions. Notably, Wills Bros has led significant projects like the €150m Westport to Turlough N5 project, involving extensive road construction, and the €39m Moycullen Bypass, designed to improve traffic flow and safety.

Another impressive recent project is the A939 New Gairnshiel Bridge in Aberdeenshire, showcasing their skill in bridge building while respecting the area's natural and historical significance. These projects exemplify Wills Bros' adaptability and expertise in tackling complex engineering challenges across diverse environments.

Embracing Innovation

Under the leadership of the Wills family, the company has been at the forefront of integrating technology and innovation in its operations. James, with his keen insight into construction plant equipment, spearheaded the company's shift towards GPS-guided machinery in 2003, revolutionising their approach to project execution.

This technological adeptness was further demonstrated in their adoption of Building Information Modelling (BIM), streamlining project management, and enhancing efficiency. They are amongst a small handful of Civil Engineering contractors to have achieved the BSI Kitemark certification for BIM.

Sustainability Champions

Sustainability is deeply ingrained in Wills Bros' operational philosophy, underscoring their unwavering commitment to eco-friendly engineering practices. In 2019, the company distinguished itself as a pioneer by becoming the world's first Civil Engineering Contractor to achieve Carbon Neutral status, an accolade awarded under the United Nations' 'One Carbon World' scheme. This early commitment to sustainability set a benchmark for environmental responsibility in the civil engineering industry.

Building on this foundational achievement, Wills Bros undertook the Glasgow Airport Investment Area project, where they achieved an impressive 87% reduction in carbon emissions.

This significant environmental milestone earned them the ‘Carbon Champion’ recognition from the Institution of Civil Engineers. The recognition for this specific project highlights Wills Bros' continued leadership and dedication to pushing the boundaries of sustainable engineering solutions.

A Culture Rooted in Safety and Family Values

Safety has always been paramount at Wills Bros, a principle instilled by the founders and perpetuated throughout the company's culture. Their systematic approach to safety - comply, prevent, lead- has not only minimised risks on-site but also fostered a work environment where every employee feels valued and protected. This has led to a rating as a consistent high achiever at the NISO Awards.

The notion of family extends beyond the Wills surname, permeating every level of the company. From knowing every employee by name to nurturing a sense of community and belonging, Wills Bros has maintained its family-run ethos despite its size and scope. This personal touch has been crucial in building a loyal and dedicated workforce.

The Wills Family Leadership

The story of Wills Bros is inseparable from the Wills family themselves. Charles, as the Managing Director, and James, the Company Secretary, have been the bedrock of the company, guiding its strategic direction and operations. Their leadership has been complemented by other family members, including Tim Wills, Operations Director, Trevor Wills, Legal Director, and Jonathan Wills, Director for Ireland and the UK, among others. Each has brought their expertise and passion to their roles, contributing to the company's growth and success.

Charles's role, in particular, has been pivotal. As a former president of the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) and a recognised leader in the construction sector, his influence extends beyond Wills Bros, shaping industry standards and practices. James's commercial oversight has ensured the company's robust economic health and operational excellence.

Looking Ahead

Over fifty years, Wills Bros has navigated economic fluctuations, technological shifts, and the challenges of scaling up from a local business to an international player. The company's evolution reflects not just the vision and determination of its founders but also their ability to adapt and innovate in a changing world.

As Wills Bros looks to the future, the blend of family leadership, a commitment to innovation and sustainability, and a culture of safety and community continues to drive its success. The legacy of James and Charles Wills is not just in the infrastructure they've built but, in the values they've instilled in their company—a legacy that promises to guide Wills Bros into the future.