Balfour Beatty Bolsters Digital and Procurement Leadership

Balfour Beatty, the leading international infrastructure multinational, has announced two key appointments to its executive leadership team.

According to the company's report, the move underscores its commitment to digital transformation and sustainable procurement in the construction industry.

The report says that the company aims to leverage digital technologies to enhance project delivery and efficiency.

This includes implementing Building Information Modeling (BIM) for improved design and construction coordination and using data analytics to optimise resource allocation.

In sustainable procurement, the report says that the company seeks to reduce its carbon footprint by sourcing eco-friendly materials and supporting local suppliers.

An example of a construction project where Balfour Beatty has used enhanced technology is the HS2 rail project, a high-speed rail project connecting major UK cities, with Skanska, a multinational construction company, where it utilised shared digital platforms for project management.

Regarding sustainability, Balfour Beatty also partnered with Mace, the global consultancy and construction firm, to develop sustainable construction practices, including the use of low-carbon concrete.

Balfour Beatty’s digital transformation in construction

Jon Ozanne has been named as Balfour Beatty's new Chief Information Officer (CIO), the report reveals.

In this role, Ozanne will be responsible for overseeing the company's information technology strategy and digital transformation efforts and digital initiatives including cyber security and AI adoption.

His appointment reflects the growing importance of digital technologies in the construction sector, including areas such as Building Information Modeling (BIM) and data analytics.

According to the report authors, Ozanne's expertise will be crucial in driving innovation across Balfour Beatty's operations.

This includes enhancing project delivery through improved data management and implementing advanced technologies to increase efficiency on construction sites.

Balfour Beatty’s sustainable procurement practices

In addition to the CIO appointment, Balfour Beatty has named Evan Sutherland as its new Chief Procurement Officer (CPO), the report states.

The report highlights that Sutherland will be tasked with developing and implementing sustainable procurement strategies across Balfour Beatty's global operations.

This includes sourcing materials and services in ways that minimise environmental impact and support local communities.

Sustainable procurement has become increasingly important in the construction industry, as companies seek to reduce their carbon footprint and meet evolving regulatory requirements. 

The report suggests that Sutherland's experience will be valuable in navigating these challenges.

Ozanne says: “It is a pivotal time for the construction and infrastructure industry, with digital tools and technologies integral to driving the industry’s productivity challenge.

“At Balfour Beatty, we continue to lead from the front, not only to ensure we are best positioned to deliver for our customers, but to realise opportunities that will benefit the sector as a whole.”

Sutherland adds: “Balfour Beatty has a significant footprint across our chosen geographies with thousands of valued supply chain partners working alongside us to deliver critical national infrastructure and projects at the heart of local communities. 

“Operating responsibly and with integrity is how we do business, ensuring that we have the systems and processes in place to uphold the highest ethical standards as we raise the bar for our industry.”

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