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Communications Officer Review

at Balfour Beatty

Graduate Scheme

PR and Communications

Budbrooke

Review Submitted: November 2025

Overall Rating

4.9 /5

The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!

5/5 - Overview of the Role
5/5 - Experience & Company Culture
4/5 - Recommendations & Advice

Overview of the Role

Overall, how would you describe your experience at Balfour Beatty?
My experience at Balfour Beatty has been highly rewarding and professionally enriching. The company’s collaborative culture and commitment to innovation have enabled me to contribute meaningfully to strategic projects while developing strong relationships with colleagues and clients. I have found the environment supportive, with a clear focus on continuous improvement and personal growth, making it an excellent place to start and build a career.
What are the main responsibilities of the role and which elements of the role do you enjoy the most?
As Communications Officer, my main responsibilities include developing and implementing contract-wide communication strategies, leading stakeholder engagement, supporting business development, and coordinating events and campaigns. I particularly enjoy the variety of the role, from engaging with stakeholders and delivering impactful campaigns to driving innovation through new tools and processes. The opportunity to lead initiatives such as wellbeing programmes and AI adoption has been especially fulfilling.
To what extent does your role give you the opportunity to contribute meaningfully and feel valued by your team?
5/5
My role provides significant opportunities to contribute to both team and organisational success. I am trusted to lead key projects and initiatives, and my input is regularly sought by senior management. The recognition schemes and open communication channels at Balfour Beatty ensure that contributions are valued, and I feel my work genuinely makes a difference to both my team and the wider business.
How does your compensation package - including perks & benefits - fairly remunerate you for the work you do?
5/5
Balfour Beatty offers a competitive compensation package that reflects the responsibilities of the role. Benefits include a generous pension scheme, flexible working arrangements, annual leave, and access to a wide range of employee discounts. The company’s commitment to wellbeing and work-life balance is evident in its comprehensive benefits, which I feel fairly reward the effort and dedication required.
How well do you feel the role is preparing you for your future career?
5/5
The role is excellent preparation for my future career, providing exposure to strategic planning, stakeholder management, and business development. Through the Early Careers Programme, I have benefited from structured learning, mentorship, and opportunities to lead projects, all of which have equipped me with valuable skills and experience for progression within communications, management, or consultancy.
How would you rate the extent to which you were developing new or existing skills through formal training and your day-to-day role?
5/5
I have consistently developed both new and existing skills through a blend of formal training and hands-on experience. The Early Careers Programme offers structured development, including residentials and blended learning, while my day-to-day responsibilities have enhanced my abilities in communications, stakeholder engagement, and strategic thinking. The company’s investment in training and professional development is a real strength.

Experience & Company Culture

How is the support you receive?
5/5
The support I receive at Balfour Beatty is excellent, with a strong emphasis on wellbeing and professional development. The company provides access to mental health resources, occupational health expertise, ensuring both physical and mental wellbeing are prioritised. Regular engagement surveys and open communication channels reinforce a culture where employees feel cared for and supported.
How is your work-life balance?
5/5
Work-life balance is well managed through flexible working arrangements, including Smart Working, which allows remote work where possible. The organisation recognises the importance of balancing professional and personal commitments, and policies such as enhanced parental support and wellbeing programmes demonstrate a genuine commitment to employee needs. This flexibility has helped me maintain a healthy balance while delivering on my responsibilities. [balfourbeatty.com], [glassdoor.com.au]
What is the organisational culture, values and general atmosphere like?
5/5
Balfour Beatty’s culture is collaborative, inclusive, and driven by its Build to Last strategy. The company values safety, integrity, and continuous improvement, fostering an environment where innovation and teamwork thrive. There is a strong sense of purpose in shaping communities and delivering sustainable solutions, and employees are encouraged to share ideas and take ownership of projects, creating a positive and motivating atmosphere.
How would you rate Balfour Beatty initiatives when it comes to equality, diversity, inclusion and accessibility?
5/5
Balfour Beatty’s commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion is great. The Value Everyone Action Plan sets ambitious targets, including increasing female representation by 50% and minority ethnic representation by 60% by 2030. Affinity Networks and initiatives like EcoSense cabins for neurodiverse and disabled colleagues demonstrate a proactive approach to accessibility and inclusion, making the workplace welcoming for all.
How would you rate Balfour Beatty CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) initiatives?
5/5
The company’s CSR efforts are impressive, anchored in its Building New Futures sustainability strategy. Balfour Beatty is committed to delivering £6 billion of social value in the UK by 2030 and dedicating 60,000 hours to education engagement. Its focus on climate change, biodiversity, and community engagement reflects a holistic approach to sustainability, ensuring a positive impact on society and the environment alongside business success.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Balfour Beatty to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The combination of structured learning through the Early Careers Programme, hands-on experience, and access to senior leaders makes Balfour Beatty stand out. The organisation invests in its people, provides clear progression pathways, and encourages employees to make a real impact on communities and infrastructure.
How well did the role match your expectations based on the recruitment process?
4/5
The role matched my expectations very well. The recruitment process was transparent and gave a clear picture of the responsibilities and opportunities available. The emphasis on development and flexibility highlighted during recruitment has been delivered in practice, which reinforced my confidence in the company.
When considering the recruitment & onboarding process, have you any specific tips or advice you would give to others applying to Balfour Beatty?
My advice would be to research the company’s Build to Last strategy and sustainability goals, as these are central to its culture. Demonstrating an understanding of these values during interviews will help you stand out. Also, be ready to show adaptability and enthusiasm for learning, as these qualities are highly valued.
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