Bechtel creates global infrastructure unit

07 October 2014

Bechtel plans to combine its civilian and most of its power business units to create the Bechtel Infrastructure global business unit (GBU). As part of the reorganization, Bechtel is also creating a new unit, Nuclear, Security & Environmental (NS&E), which combines the company's government and commercial nuclear businesses.

The Virginia, USA-headquartered engineering, project management and construction company, said the move "better positions" it to meet the needs of customers in key markets by integrating its services and "creating a full suite of infrastructure offerings within one unit."

Toby Seay, president of Bechtel's power business, will become president of the Infrastructure GBU, which will be headquartered in London. Peter Dawson, president of the company's civil business, will become Bechtel's head of corporate services and chief financial officer, a position he held previously. Dawson succeeds Mike Adams, who will lead new strategic projects reporting to the company's chief executive officer.

"Markets are changing and it's crucial for us to adapt so that we can continue to deliver the world-class projects customers expect from us," said Bill Dudley, Bechtel's chief executive officer. "The cities and industrial areas of tomorrow increasingly will be designed and built with roads, airports, ports, rail, water systems, communications, and power integrated into an overall plan. The Infrastructure global business unit will be able to meet that need seamlessly."

NS&E will "significantly strengthen" Bechtel's nuclear portfolio and build an industry-leading organization with capabilities across the lifecycle of facilities and sites for both commercial and government customers, it said. Craig Albert, president of the government services business, will lead Bechtel NS&E.

NS&E will operate through four global business lines. Nuclear Security & Operations includes management of nuclear propulsion facilities, nuclear security sites, and national laboratories. Nuclear Power includes plant lifecycle services for the commercial nuclear industry, from new-build to steam generator replacements, plant modifications, and maintenance services. Defence & Security includes EPC and facility operation services for the US Department of Defence, NASA, UK Ministry of Defence, and other allied governments. Environmental includes environmental clean-up, radioactive waste processing and management, and decommissioning and demolition.

"The creation of Bechtel's new infrastructure business leverages the iconic global presence of our civil business and the lump-sum, direct-hire EPC execution capabilities of our power business," said Brendan Bechtel, the company's president and chief operating officer.

"Bechtel's Nuclear, Security & Environmental business combines our industry-leading government services and nuclear power expertise to deliver more cost-effective solutions for our government and commercial nuclear customers. We are beginning an exciting new era that builds upon Bechtel's legacy while being the contractor, partner and employer of choice."

The reorganization and leadership changes take effect January 1, 2015.

Researched and written
by World Nuclear News