Obituary: Michael Conway MBE

Inspirational chairman, mentor, and visionary leader of FM Conway passes away surrounded by his family

FM Conway are saddened to announce that today their chairman, Michael Conway MBE, passed away peacefully at home following a six-year battle with cancer. Mr Conway was chief executive officer of FM Conway for more than 40 years after taking over the company from his father, Frank Conway, who founded it in 1961. For the past two years, Michael Conway (pictured) moved into the role of chairman whilst chief executive officer Adam Green and the senior leadership team controlled the development and growth of the business operations. Mr Green said: ‘Today we have lost an inspiring mentor and a visionary leader both for FM Conway and the construction industry. Michael has touched the lives of many and leaves behind him a business built upon and guided by strong family values. Michael was passionate about FM Conway and the important role the business played in employing and empowering its great people as well as in delivering critical infrastructure to help improve the communities we live and work within. He was also not afraid to stand up for what he believed in. Michael was a true pioneer in sustainable construction and was recycling materials ahead of his time. He came up against steep resistance back in the 1980’s but he stood firm and took the bold step to invest further and now that business model is the bedrock of FM Conway. Anyone fortunate enough to have met Michael will know that he took true enjoyment in engaging with people and, until recently, was well-known for his visits to sites and depots where he would speak to our frontline workers to ensure that he was hearing feedback first-hand. Michael was also the founder of the London Construction Academy, formed to provide opportunities for people not in employment, education, or training. He was passionate about the future of our industry and ensuring that we supported and encouraged people into the construction industry.’

Joanne Conway, managing director, said: ‘There are no words which can adequately express my family’s sadness. Both watching and being a part of the growth and success of FM Conway under my dad’s vision has been inspiring. It is truly a family business which means so much to so many people. As a family, we will honour my dad’s memory by dedicating ourselves to ensuring that FM Conway continue to thrive and support the people and businesses who have always been at our side.’