Taylor Rail Australia appoints

Ian Chaffey as Chief Executive Officer to lead next phase of growth

Taylor Rail Australia (Taylor Rail) has announced the appointment of Ian Chaffey as Chief Executive Officer, and Director of Construction Operations, effective 6 October 2026.

The appointment marks a planned leadership transition for the business, with outgoing CEO Peter Kessler retiring from executive duties on 26 October 2026 after eight years in the role. Under Peter’s stewardship, Taylor Rail achieved significant growth and further strengthened its reputation as a trusted partner to the Australian rail industry.

Taylor Rail, a subsidiary of VINCI Construction Australia, delivers end-to-end rail solutions across construction, maintenance, technical advisory, and project delivery services throughout Australia.

Ian joins Taylor Rail following a distinguished career with VINCI Construction Australia subsidiary, Seymour Whyte, where he has built a strong reputation for leading major transport and civil infrastructure projects, developing high-performing teams and fostering trusted client relationships.

With more than 30 years of experience across the infrastructure, transport and construction sectors, Ian brings extensive leadership, operational and commercial expertise to the role.

Chair of Taylor Rail and Chair of VINCI Construction Australia, John Kirkwood, welcomed the appointment.

“Ian is a highly respected leader whose experience, values and proven ability to deliver complex infrastructure projects make him exceptionally well placed to lead Taylor Rail into its next chapter.”

“Australia’s continuing investment in rail infrastructure presents significant opportunities, and Taylor Rail is well positioned to build on its strong market reputation and specialist expertise.”

“We are confident Ian’s leadership will further strengthen our capabilities, drive innovation and create long-term value for our clients, employees and stakeholders.”

Commenting on his appointment, Ian said he was honoured to have the opportunity to lead Taylor Rail.

“Taylor Rail has built an outstanding reputation as a trusted partner to the Australian rail industry, supported by highly capable people, strong client relationships and a commitment to excellence.”

“Having been part of the VINCI Construction family, I have seen firsthand the value of collaboration, shared expertise and a people-first culture. I look forward to working with the talented Taylor Rail team to continue growing the business, creating opportunities for people and delivering exceptional outcomes for our clients.”

Under Ian’s leadership, the business will continue to focus on safety, innovation, operational excellence and sustainable growth while continuing its reputation as a trusted rail infrastructure partner.

The Board acknowledged and thanked outgoing CEO Peter Kessler for his outstanding leadership and significant contribution to Taylor Rail over the past eight years.

Under Peter’s leadership, the business achieved substantial growth, expanded its national footprint and further strengthened its reputation as a trusted rail infrastructure partner across Australia.

Peter Kessler congratulated Ian on his appointment and reflected on his time leading the business.

“It has been a privilege to lead Taylor Rail over the past eight years and work alongside an exceptional team of rail professionals.”

“Together, we have built a business that is recognised as a trusted partner across the Australian rail industry, and I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved.”

“Ian is an outstanding leader with a proven track record of delivering complex infrastructure projects and building high-performing teams. I am confident he will build on the strong foundations in place and successfully lead Taylor Rail into the future.”

Steve Lambert, Seymour Whyte CEO and Taylor Rail Board Member, said Ian’s appointment was a strong example of leadership development across the Group.

“Ian is an exceptional leader who has made a significant contribution to Seymour Whyte since 2018.”

“We're incredibly proud to see Ian take on this important leadership role and continue building the success of Taylor Rail as part of VINCI Construction Australia. His appointment reflects the strength of leadership talent across our Group and our commitment to developing outstanding people for long-term success.“

“Having worked closely with Ian for many years, I've seen his ability to build high-performing teams, foster strong client relationships and successfully deliver complex projects. We are excited to see him lead Taylor Rail through its next stage of growth.“

In Taylor Rail’s 60th year of operations, the business is well positioned to build on the strong foundations established under Peter Kessler's leadership and capitalise on future opportunities as part of VINCI Construction Australia under incoming CEO Ian Chaffey.

About VINCI Construction Australia and Taylor Rail

VINCI Construction Australia is a wholly owned subsidiary of VINCI Construction, the global leader in construction, buildings and civil works in more than 100 countries.

In 2024, VINCI Construction Australia acquired a 51% majority stake in Australian rail specialist Taylor Rail Australia (Taylor Rail). This partnership expanded VINCI Construction's regional footprint and gave Taylor Rail access to global resources and rail technology. VINCI Construction Australia also owns 100% of Seymour Whyte Constructions Pty Ltd.