Balfour Beatty Names John Harris to Lead Southeast Buildings Operations

Highlights

• Balfour Beatty appointed John Harris as president of Southeast Buildings, effective Oct. 22, 2026.
• Harris succeeds Scott Skidelsky, who moved into the role of U.S. president for strategy and growth.
• Harris will oversee operations, client relationships and strategic direction across Georgia and Florida.
• The business targets sectors including data centres, aviation, education, public facilities and hospitality.
• Harris has spent nearly 28 years with Balfour Beatty, progressing through operational and executive positions.

Leadership continuity across regional construction operations can support project delivery and client relationships as contractors pursue work in multiple market sectors. Balfour Beatty has appointed John Harris as president of Southeast Buildings, placing a longtime executive in charge of its operations across Georgia and Florida.

Regional Leadership and Operational Responsibilities

Harris will oversee strategic direction, operating performance and client relationships across the Southeast Buildings business. His priorities include coordinating teams across local markets, maintaining execution standards and pursuing opportunities in key sectors.

The appointment follows Scott Skidelsky's move to the position of U.S. president for strategy and growth. Harris most recently served as executive vice president of Southeast Buildings, giving him experience within the regional operation before taking on the broader leadership role.

Nearly Three Decades of Construction Experience

Harris began his career with Balfour Beatty after being recruited from the University of Florida as an intern. Over nearly 28 years, he advanced through operational and leadership positions while contributing to projects across the Southeast.

His project experience includes hospitality and entertainment facilities, aviation infrastructure, convention centres, high-rise buildings and public and civic developments.

Harris also serves on the Industry Advisory Board for the University of Florida's M.E. Rinker Sr. School of Construction Management, supporting industry engagement and construction education.

Growth Across Key Southeast Construction Markets

Balfour Beatty's Southeast Buildings operations will continue to target data centres, aviation, education, public facilities and hospitality. These sectors encompass a range of project types, from specialised facilities to institutional and public-use buildings.

For construction owners and industry partners, the leadership change places an executive with extensive regional experience at the head of the business. Harris's responsibilities will include maintaining client relationships, coordinating operational performance and positioning the regional operation for future project opportunities.

Source: Balfour Beatty.