Wates Group announces the death of its former Chief Executive
Sir Christopher Wates (1939-2024)
It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Sir Christopher Stephen Wates on 22 September 2024. Sir Christopher was a respected leader in the construction and development industry and a beloved member of the Wates family.
Born in 1939, Christopher was the fifth child and second son of Norman and Peggy Wates. A graduate of Brasenose College, Oxford, he earned a degree in politics, philosophy, and economics before training as an accountant.
Christopher joined Wates in the late 1950s, becoming its Financial Director and later Chief Executive Officer. His leadership was instrumental in steering Wates through the challenges of the 1980s and 1990s, working closely with his cousin Michael until their joint retirement at the end of the century.
The very sad news of my cousin Christopher’s death has left me with an empty feeling. For much of his and my career in Wates we worked together, he was my Chief Executive for many years whilst I was Chairman. During that period, he led the company through some difficult times, and he handled the bad times and the good times with equal aplomb. I can say in all the years we worked together we never had a cross word. Not only was he a wonderful cousin, but also a great workmate. My thoughts are very much with his wife Georgie and his family at this time.”
Michael Wates
Former Chairman of the group
Beyond his professional achievements, Christopher was an active and committed public servant. He served as a director and trustee of Chatham Historic Dockyard Trust, the Science Museum, and Lambeth Palace Library. He was also Chairman of English Estates and a church commissioner. He was knighted in 1989 in recognition of his contributions to the construction and development industry.
I have fond memories of Sir Christopher. He was an inspiring man with strong values, and a great leader of our company. He will be remembered for his dedication, leadership and enduring legacy in both his professional and personal life. He will be missed dearly, and my thoughts are with his wife, three daughters and close family.”
Tim Wates
Chairman of Wates Group
Image: November 2001: The Queen Visiting Goodenough College – An International Residential College In The Centre Of London . With Her Is Sir Christopher Wates.
