Commercial Services Group has announced that Rob Boyles, currently the Group’s Chief
Financial Officer, will become Group Chief Executive Officer on 1 April 2026.
Rob succeeds Matt Johnson, who has led the organisation through outstanding growth and
transformation. Matt will continue to support Commercial Services Group as the External
Independent Chair of the Group’s Mergers & Acquisitions Panel, aligning with Rob’s strategic
direction and contributing external expertise to advance the Group’s M&A and investment
growth agenda.
Under Matt Johnson’s leadership, Commercial Services Group has evolved into the UK’s largest
local authority–owned trading organisation, bringing together 33 specialist brands under one
unified group structure and delivering three consecutive years of record revenue, profit, and
dividend growth.
Over the past five years, Commercial Services Group has significantly expanded its reach and
impact, acquiring and integrating several businesses including CES Holdings, Bowerhouse Solar
II, Prospects Payroll, Lifecycle Management Group, Landscapes for Learning, and WF Education
Group (Maudesport, Gresswell, TSL and Timstar). The Group has also launched new ventures
such as Impact Energy Partners and created multiple public-to-public joint ventures with local
authorities including Hampshire, Luton, Surrey, Dudley, Dorset, Halton and Hackney.
Reflecting on his tenure, Matt Johnson said:
“It has been a privilege to lead Commercial Services Group and to work alongside such talented
and committed people. Together, we’ve built an organisation that combines commercial
strength with public purpose — one that delivers measurable value for our customers and
communities every single day.
“Our goal was to bring together a collection of standalone businesses into a single, thriving
group — and we’ve achieved that. Commercial Services Group now has a clear identity, a
culture of collaboration and impact, and a track record of sustainable growth. I’m proud of what
we’ve built together and excited to remain part of the journey as External Independent Chair of
our Mergers & Acquisitions Panel.”
Philip Dearing, Chair of the Commercial Services Group Board, said:
“Matt has achieved what he set out to do: to bring Commercial Services Group together as one
organisation, create a culture of growth and impact, and deliver consistent financial
performance and social value. On behalf of the Board, I want to thank him for his exceptional
leadership, strategic vision, and the strong foundations he has created for the future.
“We are delighted that he will continue to support Commercial Services Group in his new role,
and that he passes the baton to Rob Boyles, who has been instrumental in the Group’s success
over recent years. Rob’s appointment reflects the strength of leadership within our organisation
and provides excellent continuity for our people, customers, and partners.
“The Board and I look forward to supporting Rob as he leads the next phase of the Group’s
growth and continues to build on the progress achieved under Matt’s leadership.”
Rob Boyles, currently Chief Financial Officer and soon to be Group Chief Executive Officer,
said:
“I’m honoured to be taking on the role of Group Chief Executive, having been part of
Commercial Services Group’s journey for several years. Matt leaves behind an organisation that
is commercially robust, purpose-driven, and full of opportunity. Our focus now is on building on
that success — strengthening our partnerships across the public and private sectors, investing
in our people, and continuing to deliver value and impact for the communities we serve.
“With a fantastic team and the continued support of our Shareholder, our Chair, and our Board,
I’m confident that Commercial Services Group is well positioned for its next chapter of growth
and success.”
Commercial Services Group continues to support customers across local government,
education, health, housing, energy, and the wider public sector, delivering innovative solutions
that strengthen frontline services, improve efficiency, and create measurable social impact.
All surpluses generated by Commercial Services Group are returned to the public purse, helping
to fund frontline services and reinvest in the communities we serve.
About Rob Boyles
Rob Boyles is currently Chief Financial Officer of Commercial Services Group and will become
Group Chief Executive Officer on 1 April 2026. With over 25 years’ experience spanning the
public and private sectors, he has a proven track record in driving growth, transformation, and
long-term value while ensuring financial performance delivers meaningful social impact.