Assistant Project Manager (Graduate) Review

I would describe my experience on the Balfour Beatty Graduate Scheme as transformational, challenging, and full of opportunity. Starting with an industrial placement and progressing through the graduate programme into a Project Manager role, the scheme has provided exposure to a wide range of projects, teams, and experiences that have accelerated both my professional and personal development.
One of the biggest benefits has been the variety of opportunities available. Throughout the scheme I have worked across different areas of the business, gained experience on major infrastructure projects, undertaken site visits across the country, developed commercial and project management skills, and built relationships with colleagues from all levels of the organisation. This exposure helped me broaden my understanding of the industry and identify the career path I wanted to pursue.
The graduate scheme has also encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone. Whether that was launching an internal podcast, presenting at events, supporting knowledge-sharing initiatives, mentoring apprentices and graduates, or helping to establish an Early Careers Forum, I have been given opportunities that extend far beyond my day-to-day role. These experiences have helped build my confidence, leadership skills, and professional network.
A key part of my experience has been the support from managers, mentors, and colleagues. Having people who have challenged, encouraged, and invested in my development has been invaluable. The culture has allowed me to take on increasing responsibility and progress more quickly than I ever expected.
The recognition I have received, including Balfour Beatty Graduate Project Manager of the Year and external APM awards, has been a proud moment, but for me it reflects the opportunities the graduate scheme provides rather than individual success alone. The scheme has given me the platform to develop, contribute, and make a difference both within the business and in the wider community.
Overall, the Balfour Beatty Graduate Scheme has given me far more than technical project management experience. It has helped shape my career, expand my confidence, develop my leadership skills, and ultimately supported my progression from a placement student to a Project Manager in just four years

my main responsibilities include managing the delivery of highway and public realm projects from inception through to completion. This involves programme management, stakeholder engagement, commercial and contractual administration, coordinating multidisciplinary teams, managing risks and opportunities, and ensuring projects are delivered safely, on time, and within budget. I also work closely with clients, supply chain partners, designers, and operational teams to ensure successful project outcomes.
The element of the role I enjoy most is the variety. No two days are the same, and I enjoy the challenge of bringing different people together to solve problems and deliver successful projects. I particularly enjoy visiting sites and seeing projects progress from a concept or design on paper through to a completed scheme that provides a tangible benefit to local communities.
I also enjoy the people aspect of the role. Building relationships with clients, delivery teams, and early careers colleagues has been one of the most rewarding parts of my career so far. Through initiatives such as the Early Careers Forum, mentoring, and knowledge-sharing activities, I've been able to support others while continuing to learn myself.
Perhaps the most rewarding part is seeing the impact of a project once it is delivered. Whether it's improving infrastructure, enhancing public spaces, or supporting local communities, it's satisfying to know that the work we do creates lasting benefits for the people who use these assets every day

My role gives me a significant opportunity to contribute meaningfully and feel valued by my team. Whilst my day-to-day responsibilities focus on delivering projects, I have also been trusted to support and lead a number of initiatives outside of my core role. This has included launching and supporting knowledge-sharing activities, mentoring and supporting early careers colleagues, helping establish the Early Careers Forum, supporting inclusion and networking initiatives, and contributing to wider business improvement programmes.
What I value most is that I am encouraged to bring ideas forward and take ownership of them. The business has given me the autonomy to lead initiatives that I am passionate about, whilst providing support and guidance when needed. This makes me feel that my contributions are recognised and trusted beyond my immediate project responsibilities.

Standard 25 days annual leave
Social Activities
Travel to visit other projects paid for

I feel the role is preparing me extremely well for my future career. One of the biggest strengths of the role is the breadth of experience it provides. Alongside managing the delivery of projects, I have been given opportunities to lead and support a range of initiatives that sit outside my day-to-day responsibilities, allowing me to develop skills in leadership, stakeholder management, communication, mentoring, and business improvement.
The role has exposed me to different aspects of the business, from project delivery and commercial management to early careers, inclusion initiatives, knowledge sharing, and community engagement. This variety has helped me build confidence and gain a broader understanding of what it takes to be an effective leader in the future.
I particularly value the trust and responsibility I have been given to take ownership of initiatives and drive them forward. Having the opportunity to contribute beyond my core role has accelerated my development and allowed me to gain experience that I may not otherwise have had at this stage in my career.
Overall, I feel the role is equipping me with both the technical project management skills and the wider leadership capabilities needed for future progression. It has provided a strong foundation for my career and continues to challenge me in ways that support my long-term development.

The support I have received throughout my graduate scheme and current role has been excellent. I have been fortunate to have strong support from my line managers, mentors, senior leaders, and the Early Careers team, all of whom have played an important role in my development.
My line managers have provided regular guidance, constructive feedback, and opportunities to take on greater responsibility as my confidence and capability have grown. I have also benefited from support from senior leaders and directors who have taken the time to discuss career development, provide advice, and encourage me to pursue opportunities both within and outside my immediate role.
Alongside this, I have developed strong relationships with mentors who have been invaluable in helping me navigate career decisions, build confidence, and broaden my understanding of the wider business. Having access to different perspectives and experiences has greatly supported my professional growth.
The support from HR and the Early Careers team has also been very positive. Regular catch-ups, graduate scheme activities, and development conversations have helped ensure I remained focused on my progression while feeling connected to the wider graduate community.
One aspect I have particularly valued is the opportunity to have career conversations with colleagues from across different parts of the business. These discussions have provided a broader understanding of the various career paths available within Balfour Beatty and helped me build a strong network across the organisation.
Overall, I have felt well supported throughout my journey. The combination of strong line management, accessible mentors, senior leadership engagement, and regular HR and Early Careers support has provided a positive environment for both personal and professional development.

Overall, I would say my work-life balance is good. The role can be busy at times, particularly when managing live projects, site activities, and multiple stakeholder requirements, but I have generally felt supported in balancing my workload alongside my personal commitments and wellbeing.
One of the things I value most is the flexibility and trust I am given to manage my responsibilities. Whilst there are naturally periods of increased workload, I have been encouraged to take ownership of my diary, prioritise effectively, and make use of the support available when needed.
The role has also allowed me to get involved in a range of activities outside of project delivery, including the Early Careers Forum, Knowledge Series, inclusion initiatives, mentoring, and professional development opportunities. Whilst these add to my workload, they are activities I genuinely enjoy and they contribute positively to my sense of purpose, development, and job satisfaction.
From a wellbeing perspective, I have benefited from strong support from my line management team, mentors, and wider colleagues. This has helped me manage the challenges that come with a project management role while continuing to develop both professionally and personally.
Overall, I feel I have a healthy balance between delivering my role, pursuing development opportunities, and maintaining my personal wellbeing. The variety of the role keeps me engaged, while the support network around me helps ensure that the demands remain manageable.

I would describe the organisational culture as positive, inclusive, and supportive. Throughout my time at Balfour Beatty, I have found colleagues at all levels to be approachable and willing to share their knowledge and experience. As an early careers employee, I have always felt welcomed and encouraged to contribute, regardless of my level or experience.
One of the aspects I value most is the emphasis placed on development and inclusion. There are numerous opportunities to get involved in networks, forums, knowledge-sharing events, and wider business initiatives. Through activities such as the Knowledge Series, the Early Careers Forum, Women in Engineering Week, and inclusion campaigns, I have seen a genuine commitment to creating an environment where people feel able to develop, contribute, and be themselves.
The culture also encourages collaboration across teams, contracts, and business units. I have had opportunities to connect with colleagues from different parts of the business through training programmes, career conversations, mentoring relationships, and project work. This has helped me build a strong network and gain exposure to a variety of career paths and experiences.
From a working arrangements perspective, I have found there to be a good level of trust and flexibility, allowing people to balance project requirements with personal commitments while remaining connected to their teams. The hybrid working approach, where appropriate, supports both collaboration and wellbeing. This flexibility has enabled me to remain productive while maintaining a positive work-life balance.(Personal experience and opinion.)
Overall, the atmosphere is welcoming, supportive, and focused on helping people succeed. There is a strong emphasis on personal development, collaboration, and recognising contributions, which has made it an enjoyable place to build my career and progress from a placement student to a Project Manager.

I would rate Balfour Beatty’s approach to equality, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility very highly. Throughout my time with the business, I have seen a genuine commitment to creating an inclusive environment where people are encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work and have equal opportunities to develop and progress. This is reflected through initiatives such as the Gender & Allies Network, Women in Engineering Week, National Inclusion Week activities, and various inclusion and wellbeing campaigns that actively encourage employee participation, that I got to support and be apart of.
What stands out most is that inclusion is embedded into day-to-day culture, rather than being limited to standalone events. Employees are encouraged to contribute, share experiences, and support one another regardless of background or career stage. The organisation's commitment to development, allyship, and accessibility helps create a welcoming environment where people feel valued, respected, and empowered to succeed.

Yes

Yes, I would absolutely recommend Balfour Beatty to a friend. The opportunities I have been given throughout my placement year, graduate scheme, and now as a Project Manager have been exceptional. The business has invested heavily in my development through formal training, mentoring, leadership opportunities, professional qualifications, and exposure to a wide variety of projects and sectors.
What stands out most is the culture. I have benefited from supportive managers, mentors, senior leaders, and colleagues who have encouraged me to take on new challenges and develop both professionally and personally. Beyond my day-to-day role, I have been able to get involved in initiatives such as the Early Careers Forum, Knowledge Series, inclusion networks, and community-focused activities, all of which have enhanced my experience and development.
For anyone looking for a business that offers genuine career progression, development opportunities, meaningful work, and a supportive environment, I would have no hesitation in recommending Balfour Beatty. My progression from placement student to Project Manager in four years is a testament to the opportunities available.