Balfour Beatty Appoints Richard Watts to Lead UK Rail Division

What's Happening?

Balfour Beatty has announced the appointment of Richard Watts as the new managing director of its UK Rail business. Watts, who is currently the rail sector director at BAM Nuttall, will join Balfour Beatty later this year and officially assume his new role in January 2026. He brings extensive experience in the rail sector, having held senior positions at TXM Plant, High Speed 2 Ltd, Colas Rail, and Network Rail. Watts will succeed Mick Rayner, who has led the rail business since 2018 and will transition to a part-time senior adviser role at the end of 2025. Stephen Tarr, Balfour Beatty's group sector lead for UK energy, expressed confidence in Watts' ability to drive the division's forward momentum and ensure the delivery of high-quality rail infrastructure across the UK.

Why It's Important?

The leadership change at Balfour Beatty's UK Rail division comes at a pivotal time for the rail industry, as the UK government continues to invest in infrastructure projects. Watts' appointment is expected to strengthen Balfour Beatty's position in the rail sector, leveraging his experience in major rail project delivery. The transition also aligns with the broader industry changes driven by Great British Railways, which aims to reshape the rail sector. Balfour Beatty's focus on long-term public sector frameworks and regulated markets positions it to capitalize on upcoming opportunities in rail, energy, and transport.

What's Next?

As Watts prepares to take on his new role, Balfour Beatty will continue to focus on maintaining a strong pipeline of work in the rail sector. The company is expected to leverage its expertise in delivering major infrastructure projects to secure contracts and expand its presence in the UK market. The transition period will involve collaboration between Watts and Rayner to ensure a smooth handover and continuity in leadership. Balfour Beatty's ongoing projects, including its work with Network Rail and Transport for London, will remain a priority as the company navigates the evolving rail landscape.