Balfour Beatty to Hire 2,000 as UK Infrastructure Projects Expand

Balfour Beatty plans to increase its UK workforce by 2,000 employees over the next two years, driven by a ramp-up in infrastructure projects, particularly in the energy sector. Approximately half of these new positions will be dedicated to 'early-career talent,' including apprentices, graduates, interns, and trainees.

The company aims to grow its UK staff from around 14,000 to 16,000 by the end of 2027, representing a more than 30 percent increase in four years. This expansion is necessary to meet the demands of delivering critical national infrastructure. Balfour Beatty's order book has grown significantly, with a £2.1 billion UK Power Transmission order book and an identified pipeline of £6 billion to £8 billion.

"Britain's infrastructure ambitions will only be realised if the country has the capacity, capability and skills to deliver them," said Philip Hoare, Balfour Beatty's chief executive. "Expanding our workforce by 2,000 is a clear vote of confidence in the market. It shows the scale of opportunity ahead and our commitment to investing in the people, projects and technical expertise that will power Britain's future."

Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds welcomed the announcement, stating, "This is exactly what we want to see – a big British company backing Britain and creating 2,000 more jobs." He emphasized the importance of British firms investing in and training the next generation of workers.

The recruitment drive comes as the UK faces a challenge with youth disengagement. Data from the Office for National Statistics indicates that 981,000 people aged 16 to 24 were not in education, employment, or training (NEET) between April and June 2026, representing about one in eight in that age group. In response, several companies have launched initiatives to create opportunities for young people. Nissan is securing jobs at its Sunderland factory with the production of a fourth vehicle, McLaren plans to create 1,000 jobs in the UK, Domino's is seeking 5,000 new team members and drivers, and Marks & Spencer announced 1,000 training places. Additionally, over 40 retailers are partnering with the Department for Work and Pensions to offer placements for 18 to 24-year-old NEETs.

A report from the Tony Blair Institute (TBI) highlighted that the UK's welfare system can inadvertently make inactivity a more secure option than treatment, training, or work for young people with conditions compatible with employment. The TBI also cited the rising cost and risk of employing individuals, due to factors such as minimum wage increases, employer taxes, and increased regulation, as a deterrent for businesses hiring less experienced workers. The institute recommended phasing in employer National Insurance contributions for younger workers to create a more gradual transition into the adult labor market.