Balfour Beatty has promoted Kay Slade to managing director of its UK regional civils business as the contractor resets its leadership bench.

Slade will step into the role in February 2026, taking over from Mark Arrandale, who has been acting up since October and now returns to his finance director post.

A qualified solicitor specialising in major projects, construction and engineering, Slade joined Balfour Beatty four years ago as managing counsel.

She was appointed area director for UK regional civils in March 2024 after earlier spending six years at Costain in senior legal and corporate roles.

Since taking on operational responsibility in the North West, Slade has led a consolidation of the regional civils footprint, sharpened operational performance and overseen the delivery of a series of award-winning schemes across transport and flood and coastal work.

Nick Crossfield, divisional chief executive of UK construction services at Balfour Beatty, said: “Kay is an outstanding leader whose deep industry expertise and proven record of delivery speak for themselves.

“I am delighted she has agreed to take the helm as managing director as we look ahead to a strong pipeline of opportunities and continue to deliver for our customers.”

Slade added: “Having joined Balfour Beatty as managing counsel four years ago, progressing to managing director reflects both the breadth of opportunity available and the company’s strong commitment to developing talent and supporting career growth.”