Tarmac, Balfour Beatty & Atkins join forces to debate inclusion

Tarmac has hosted a panel discussion on inclusion and diversity with senior management drawn from Tarmac, Balfour Beatty and Atkins.

Held during National Inclusion Week (23 to 29 September), the session was led by senior management including Tarmac’s HR director, Graeme Boylen, Balfour Beatty’s CEO for its UK Construction Business, Dean Banks, and Atkins’ Project/Client Director, Bev Waugh.

Speaking at the event, Tarmac’s HR director, Graeme Boylen, said: “National Inclusion Week is a great opportunity for Tarmac and our friends at Balfour Beatty and Atkins to celebrate the many achievements and successes of our people, and the increased diversity and inclusion of our workforce.

“It is extremely important to us that everyone – regardless of their background or circumstances – is able to reach their potential. For this to happen, we need to continue to work hard to create an environment of inclusion, where each of our employees feel a sense of belonging so that they can bring their whole self to work.”

Bev Waugh, Atkins’ Project/Client Director, who also spoke at the panel, added: “Diverse groups are more innovative and make better decisions, which is why our industry needs to continue cultivating an inclusive environment where talent knows no distinction and where people are empowered to realise their full potential. We all have a role in making this happen, and we must challenge ourselves and each other if we see behaviours that don’t support it.”

Dean Banks, Balfour Beatty’s CEO for its UK Construction Business, commented: “At Balfour Beatty, we believe that greater inclusivity and diversity within our workforce creates a working environment that nurtures employees of all skills and abilities.

“We are deeply committed to providing equal opportunity for our employees across the Balfour Beatty business and it is imperative to open this industry-focused discussion during National Inclusion Week”.

Attended by employees from across the three companies, the event was held at Tarmac’s head-office in Solihull.  Also participating in the panel discussion were Tarmac’s Contracting Regional Director, Richard Vine, and Balfour Beatty’s Human Resources Director, Christina Brown.