Philip Hoare joins Balfour Beatty today (8 September) as its new group chief executive.
He replaces Leo Quinn, who announced in March he would be stepping down from the group’s board after more than a decade at the top of the UK’s biggest contractor.
Hoare is a civil engineer with more than three decades of experience in engineering, project management and construction at consultancy AtkinsRéalis, where he held the roles of CEO for the UK and Europe and chief operating officer of the group.
He was also the company’s president of the global engineering services business.
Hoare said: “I am honoured to lead Balfour Beatty in its next chapter. The financial and operational strengths of the group – including market-leading capabilities in core growth markets – place us in a strong position for the future.
“With significant opportunities ahead and a talented team in an industry that is rapidly evolving, I am energised by both the challenge and the responsibility. I look forward to listening, learning, and leading as we take the next steps forward, together.”
Proven track record
Balfour Beatty’s group chair, Charles Allen, added: “On behalf of the board, I am delighted to welcome Philip Hoare as group chief executive. Philip brings with him a wealth of experience and a proven track record of leadership across the global infrastructure and engineering sectors.
“As Balfour Beatty enters its next chapter, we are confident that under Philip’s leadership, the group will continue to build on the strong foundations laid over the past decade and drive forward sustainable, long-term growth.”
Balfour Beatty recorded growth across its earnings-based businesses in the first half of 2025 and expects increased profit from operations for both 2025 and 2026.
Its average net cash position exceeds £1.1bn and a £1.2bn investment portfolio.
The company now holds a record £19.5bn order book and is supported by an additional £20bn pipeline in key growth areas such as UK energy, defence and transport, as well as US buildings.
