South East Consortium (SEC) today announces that its Chief Executive Officer, Marc Baines, will be stepping down from the role in July 2025 after nearly 10 years of leadership and business growth.
Joining the organisation in September 2015, Marc took on the challenge of re-energising and redefining SEC during a pivotal moment in its history. Under his guidance, SEC has grown from a small team supporting 20 members delivering around 50 tenders a year, into a nationally recognised procurement consortium supporting hundreds of organisations and service providers. The business now stands strong as it approaches its 20th anniversary this summer.
Reflecting on the journey, Marc said:
“I feel like it’s the right time for SEC and I to make this change. Leading SEC has been an absolute pleasure – the business has delivered some outstanding results and growth whilst establishing itself as one of the key frameworks for building and refurbishment works in London and the South East. SEC is an incredible business surrounded by amazing people – all doing their bit to make improvements where housing meets construction and procurement”.
“SEC has been more than a job for me – it’s given me almost a decade of memories. I’ve written a blog for anyone who wants to know more. I want to thank everyone who’s played a part over the last decade”.
In addition to steering impressive business growth, Marc’s tenure has been marked by personal milestones, including delivering on an incorporation project, completing an MBA, and overcoming significant health challenges—all while remaining at the helm of SEC.
SEC’s Chair, Neil Diddams commented:
“Over the past 10 years, Marc has played a pivotal role in shaping the South East Consortium into the respected and trusted organisation it is today. His leadership, dedication, and deep commitment to Procurement and the housing sector have left an enduring legacy—not just within SEC, but across the sector. On behalf of the Board, our members, and partners, I want to thank him for a decade of outstanding service and wish him every success in the next chapter of his journey”.
SEC is fully committed to delivering on its plans to build upon its strong reputation, while introducing new functions to the business—such as enhanced technical support both before and after procurement. The business will also continue to expand its training offer, and customers will remain central to shaping the organisation’s strategy.
David Smith will take on the role of Acting CEO from May 19, 2025, ensuring continuity and momentum while the Board leads the search for a permanent successor, in partnership with executive search specialists Campbell Tickell. Recruitment is expected to begin prior to the CIH Conference in Brighton next week, with updates to be shared over the coming weeks.
Looking ahead, Marc will join Baily Garner in the summer as their Director of Growth and Transformation.
As SEC prepares to celebrate its 20th year this July, Marc will be on hand to mark the occasion—and to say thank you to colleagues, partners, and friends from across the sector.
Marc has also prepared a personal blog which will be released next week.
Media Contact:
Ellie Park
Senior Marketing & Communications Partner
ellie.park@southeastconsortium.org.uk
