Watts will join Balfour later this year and become Managing Director of the UK Rail business in January 2026.

At BAM he was responsible for the overall performance and delivery of national rail frameworks, as well as for the company’s highways operations.

Watts has 20 years’ experience in the rail sector including stints at TXM Plant, HS2 Ltd, Colas Rail and Network Rail.

He will replace Mick Rayner, who has worked at Balfour Beatty for over 27 years, most recently as Managing Director of Balfour Beatty’s UK Rail business; a position he has held since 2018.

Rayner will continue in his role until the end of this year, moving into a new part-time Senior Advisory role in January 2026 and continuing to play an active part in supporting the UK Rail business.

Stephen Tarr, Group Sector Lead – UK Energy and Divisional CEO of Balfour Beatty’s Power Transmission & Distribution, Rail and Balfour Beatty Kilpatrick businesses said: “Richard’s experience and in-depth knowledge of major rail project delivery will continue to drive our rail business forward, whilst ensuring safe, high-quality projects for rail users across the UK.”

Watts said: “It is an honour to join the Balfour Beatty team at this pivotal time as Great British Railways begins to reshape the industry.

“I look forward to working with Mick and the strong team he has built to help grow and strengthen what is already a fantastic business as we deliver the next chapter of the UK’s rail network.”