New Balfour Beatty group chief executive gets to work

Philip Hoare, Balfour Beatty
Philip Hoare

PHILIP Hoare has started his new role as group chief executive at Balfour Beatty, succeeding Leo Quinn.

A civil engineer, Philip Hoare brings over 30 years of experience in engineering, project management, and construction from his tenure at AtkinsRéalis Group Inc. Balfour Beatty said he was fundamental to the growth and performance of AtkinsRéalis, first as CEO of Atkins in the UK and Europe, then as president of the global engineering services business and finally as chief operating officer of the group.

“I am honoured to lead Balfour Beatty in its next chapter,” Philip Hoare revealed. “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.”

Group chair Charles Allen, Lord Allen of Kensington, CBE, 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.”

In the first half of 2025, Balfour Beatty recorded growth across its earnings-based businesses, reaffirming its expectations for increased profit from operations for both 2025 and 2026. The company now holds a record £19.5 billion order book, and is supported by an additional £20 billion pipeline in growth areas such as UK energy, defence and transport, and US buildings.