Construction Management GBS Assignment Sample

Introduction Of Construction Management GBS

The term "management structure" describes how an organisation is planned and organised to fulfil its aims as well as the objectives. It often entails the hierarchical organisation of people in addition to the departments as well as the coordination of activities and responsibilities among various organisational levels. Management structure can have a considerable influence on organisational performance and employee outcomes, according to recent research by Ehrhardt et al. (2021). In order to guarantee that their management structure is in line with their aims and objectives as well as the requirements and preferences of their workforce, organisations must carefully evaluate and develop it.

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The success of construction organisations is significantly influenced by the marketing and human resource departments. Marketing is essential for bringing in new customers and keeping up ties with current ones. Effective marketing tactics may promote an organization's services, build brand recognition, and set it apart from rivals. The recruitment, development, and retention of a competent staff, on the other hand, depend on human resource management activities. The significance of efficient human resource management in the construction sector, including training and development programmes, performance management systems, and employee engagement efforts, is highlighted by recent research by Raza et al. (2021). Overall, the efficient fusion of marketing and human resource management may boost the effectiveness of construction companies.

Thus, it can be clear from the above discussion that the main theme of the study is related to discussing the management structure of the selected construction company named as Barlour Beatty. The study has been divided into many segments in which :

1. The first segment will show the company history
2. Second part will describe the management structure of the company
3. Third part will describe the 4Ps of the Marketing Mix
4. Fourth part overview of HR function

Body

Company Background

Company Overview

Providing complex infrastructure projects for everything from buildings and roads to rail and electricity networks, Balfour Beatty is a worldwide infrastructure company. The business, which was established in the UK in 1909, presently has operations in more than 80 nations and employs some 26,000 people (Balfour Beatty, 2021). The business offers a wide range of projects and services, including project management, engineering, and construction. With several locations located all around the UK, Balfour Beatty has a significant presence there. The business is especially well-represented in the US, where it ranks among the top suppliers of infrastructure services for water, energy, and transportation (Balfour Beatty, 2021). Balfour Beatty has a huge global network of shops and offices. The business has more than 40 locations in the UK where it does business, including its London headquarters. Additionally, the business is well-established in the US, where it maintains offices in more than 30 different states (Balfour Beatty, 2021).

Overall, it can be said that an international infrastructure company called Balfour Beatty employs over 26,000 employees and conducts business in over 80 different nations. With a large presence in the US and the UK, the corporation has a vast global network of shops and offices. Balfour Beatty is dedicated to fostering an inclusive work environment and giving its staff members chances to advance both personally and professionally.

Figure 1: Company Logo

Reason behind company selection

Balfour Beatty's considerable presence and influence in the global infrastructure sector are the reasons I selected them as the organisation for this topic. The business has a rich history that dates back more than a century and has grown to operate in more than 80 countries globally. I am aware of how crucial infrastructure is to bringing people together, facilitating trade and business, and fostering economic development. The complex infrastructure projects that Balfour Beatty provides, such as electricity, water, and transport networks, have a big influence on communities, society, and economies all around the world. I also like the business' dedication to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, which is in line with the expanding need for these qualities across a range of global businesses. Balfour Beatty's dedication to employee retention and happiness is also shown by the chances for personal and professional growth it offers its staff members. Overall, Balfour Beatty is an intriguing and pertinent organisation to explore in the context of this issue due to its worldwide presence, influence on infrastructure, dedication to diversity, and employee development.

State the management structure of the selected organisation

Management Structure

A Board of Directors, Executive Committee, and management teams in charge of several business areas and geographical regions make up Balfour Beatty's hierarchical management structure. The Chairman, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), and other non-executive directors make up the Board of Directors, which oversees and governs the company's operations strategically (Balfour Beatty, 2021). The Executive Committee is in charge of carrying out the company's strategy and overseeing daily operations. The committee is made up of the CEO, the CFO, and other senior executives who are in charge of the different business divisions of the organisation, such as Support Services, Infrastructure Investments, and Construction Services (Balfour Beatty, 2021). The management structure of Balfour Beatty also has a number of teams in charge of distinct geographical areas and commercial divisions. For instance, the US Construction Services business includes a management group in charge of Florida, California, and Texas operations (Balfour Beatty, 2021).

The managerial structure of the organisation supports its goal of completing challenging infrastructure projects while upholding strict standards for environmental sustainability, health, and safety. In addition, Balfour Beatty encourages its staff to take ownership and responsibility for their work and promotes innovation and cooperation (Balfour Beatty, 2020).

Overall, it can be said that A hierarchical management structure supports the daily operations and strategic aims of Balfour Beatty. While management teams are in charge of different business divisions and geographical areas, the Board of Directors and Executive Committee offer governance and strategic supervision. The management structure and organisational culture of the corporation reflect its emphasis on innovation, environmental sustainability, sustainability of the environment, and health.

How the structure helps the company

Through efficient governance, monitoring, and administration of its activities, Balfour Beatty is able to realise its strategic goals thanks to its management structure. The Board of Directors and Executive Committee of the company set strategic direction, and management teams are in charge of day-to-day operations. This structure enables the company to stay focused on completing complex infrastructure projects while upholding the highest standards of environmental sustainability, health, and safety. Clear lines of communication and decision-making are also made possible by the hierarchical management system, which encourages effectiveness and accountability. The managerial structure of the organisation, which encourages workers to take ownership and responsibility for their work, supports the company's focus on innovation and cooperation. A framework for smooth cooperation and coordination is provided by the company's management structure, which also allows it to function efficiently across multiple geographical locations and business divisions. The management teams of Balfour Beatty supervise activities in several areas, ensuring that the business is well-positioned to seize local opportunities while simultaneously keeping an eye on the big picture. The management structure of Balfour Beatty also supports the business's dedication to diversity and inclusion. Women make up over 30% of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee, demonstrating the company's commitment to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace (Balfour Beatty, 2021).

In this way, Balfour Beatty's management structure supports the company's commitment to diversity and inclusion while also providing effective governance, oversight, and management of its operations. It also encourages efficiency and accountability, fosters innovation and collaboration, and allows for seamless coordination across various regions and business units.

How the management structure benefits the company

The management structure of Balfour Beatty offers the business a number of advantages. First of all, the hierarchy allows for efficient control and monitoring of the business's activities, ensuring that strategic objectives are met and day-to-day operations are managed effectively (Balfour Beatty, 2021). In addition, the management structure encourages responsibility and open channels of communication, guaranteeing rapid decision-making and well-defined roles (Balfour Beatty, 2021). Balfour Beatty's management structure also has the advantage of enabling seamless coordination across several geographies and business groups, which promotes innovation and cooperation (Balfour Beatty, 2021c). Women make up over 30% of the Board of Directors and the Executive Committee, which supports the organization's commitment to diversity and inclusion (Balfour Beatty, 2021).

The managerial system of Balfour Beatty does have certain drawbacks, though. One possible problem is that the hierarchical structure may result in bureaucracy or sluggish decision-making, which may make it more difficult for the business to react rapidly to shifting market circumstances (Li, 2019). Additionally, a lack of autonomy or ownership among employees may result from the hierarchical structure, which may discourage innovation and creativity (Vitasek, 2019). In conclusion, the management structure of Balfour Beatty offers the business a number of benefits, including efficient governance, accountability, coordination, and diversity and inclusion. There are possible drawbacks, too, such delayed decision-making and a lack of employee autonomy. It is the responsibility of the company's leadership to successfully handle these possible problems and make sure that the management structure continues to function.

Briefly discuss the 4Ps of the Marketing Mix

Marketing mix

The term "marketing mix" refers to the collection of marketing techniques utilised to accomplish the various marketing goals. Market offerings are significant in the marketing process.

Products: Balfour Beatty is primarily a construction and engineering firm that provides a vast array of services and goods connected to the development of infrastructure. Among the services provided by the business are maintenance, project finance, construction management, and civil engineering (Balfour Beatty, 2021). The creation and upkeep of vital infrastructure including roads, trains, airports, and utilities depend on Balfour Beatty's goods and services. Due to its knowledge and experience, the business can complete challenging projects that need for technical know-how, creative thinking, and tight coordination with stakeholders (Balfour Beatty, 2021). Balfour Beatty offers a variety of digital solutions in addition to its core construction and engineering services to help its clients with project planning, design, and execution. Data analytics, virtual and augmented reality, and 3D printing are a few of these options (Balfour Beatty, 2021). Overall, Balfour Beatty's goods and services assist economic growth and development by giving communities and companies the infrastructure they need to prosper. Because of the company's dedication to innovation and sustainability, its goods and services are of the greatest calibre and are environmentally responsible.

Price: The nature of the project, such as whether it is a private or public sector project, and the contractual conditions established with the customer, may also have an impact on Balfour Beatty's pricing approach. Balfour Beatty's capacity to negotiate pricing may be constrained, for instance, by the fact that some public sector projects may have predetermined budgets (Balfour Beatty, 2021).

;When it comes to pricing techniques, Balfour Beatty could employ a cost-plus strategy, which entails adding a margin on top of the project's direct expenses. As an alternative, they might employ a value-based pricing strategy, in which they estimate the value the project will provide to the client and set the price appropriately (KPMG, 2021). It is difficult to suggest a particular pricing approach that would be advantageous to Balfour Beatty given the highly customised nature of its projects. Balfour Beatty may instead need to take a flexible approach to pricing, tailoring their plan to the unique needs of each project.

Place: Infrastructure development is the main market for Balfour Beatty, and its projects are spread around the globe. With a presence in more than 80 countries globally, the company's activities are highly decentralised, allowing them to serve customers in a variety of marketplaces (Balfour Beatty, 2021).

Balfour Beatty's supply chain is intricate and includes several suppliers, partners, and subcontractors, which can make it difficult to manage quality and guarantee on-time delivery. The business has taken a number of steps to solve these issues, such as forging lasting bonds with important suppliers and implementing digital tools to enhance supply chain visibility and cooperation (Balfour Beatty, 2021). It is difficult to recommend particular distribution channels for Balfour Beatty's products due to the highly customised nature of the company's projects. Online channels, however, may be a useful distribution route for some goods and services given the company's emphasis on digital solutions and cooperation (Balfour Beatty, 2021). Additionally, Balfour Beatty may be well-positioned to use partnerships and joint ventures with local businesses to increase their market presence in specific locations thanks to their knowledge and skills in infrastructure development (Balfour Beatty, 2021).

Promotion: Advertising, public relations, and events are just a few of the ways Balfour Beatty regularly advertises its goods and services (Balfour Beatty, 2021).

Through thought leadership material and publications, such as white papers and industry studies, Balfour Beatty promotes its name and services. These resources, which are often disseminated online and through social media platforms, serve to highlight the business's experience and establish Balfour Beatty as a market leader (Balfour Beatty, 2021). In order to promote their goods and services, connect with potential customers and business partners, and gain knowledge of emerging market trends and breakthroughs, Balfour Beatty also takes part in a variety of industry events and conferences (Balfour Beatty, 2021). Additionally, Balfour Beatty may employ targeted advertising to market certain goods or services to prospective clients, such as print or online ads in trade journals (Balfour Beatty, 2021).

An overview of HR function

Definition of HR

HR (HR) is the division of a business liable for finding, selecting, screening, and preparing position candidates. HR divisions likewise handle worker remuneration, advantages, and terminations. HR divisions should stay up with the latest with regulations that can influence the organization and its representatives.

HR strategy

1. Job Analysis: Conducting a thorough analysis of the job to determine the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience required for the position(Barber,2018).

2. Sourcing Candidates: Posting job openings on Balfour Beatty's website, job boards, and social media. Referrals from current employees and partnering with recruiting agencies (Tippins,2004)

3. Screening Candidates: Reviewing resumes, cover letters, and other relevant materials to determine if candidates meet the required qualifications.

4. Conducting Interviews: Conducting phone or video interviews, followed by in-person interviews with the hiring manager and/or team members(Cascio,2018).

5. Assessments: Administering skills assessments and personality tests to evaluate candidates' abilities and fit with the company's culture.

6. Background Checks: Conducting thorough background checks to verify education, employment history, and criminal records.

7. Making an Offer: Once a candidate has been selected, a job offer is made, and negotiations begin(Barrick,2015).

8. Onboarding: Providing new hires with the necessary training and resources to succeed in their roles.

Hiring of workers

Balfour Beatty employs both expert and entry-level workers in equal measure. The business encourages diversity and inclusion and is committed to giving all of its workers the chance to further their careers. Their strategy for managing personnel is centred on spotting and nurturing talent, making sure people have the abilities and know-how to thrive in their jobs, and offering continuing assistance and training (Smith,2019). Balfour Beatty encourages staff members to constantly improve their abilities and contribute fresh ideas by fostering a culture of learning and innovation. The business promotes cooperation and collaboration and gives staff members the chance to collaborate on a range of projects spanning several specialties (Vignoles,2019).

Career Path

Yes, Balfour Beatty provides a variety of career pathways for people at various stages of their careers. For entry-level individuals, the organisation offers a number of apprenticeship programmes that give them practical experience and instruction in a range of fields. For recent graduates, Balfour Beatty also provides graduate programmes that give them a structured training and development plan across many business areas(Jones&Thompson,2017). The organisation offers opportunity for people with engineering credentials to work on challenging infrastructure projects all over the world, honing their skills and knowledge in the industry. The emphasis on career development at Balfour Beatty makes sure that workers have the chance to rise within the organisation, taking on new tasks and responsibilities as they advance in their careers( (Richards&Taylor2016).

Employee relation schemes

Yes, Balfour Beatty has several employee relations programmes in place, including awards programmes, performance reviews, and advancement opportunities. The firm has put in place a number of programmes to encourage good performance since it believes in rewarding people for their efforts and achievements. Additionally, Balfour Beatty gives frequent performance feedback to staff, assisting them in identifying areas for growth and advancing their knowledge and abilities (Rickards& Wilmott,2014).

Conclusion

We have examined many facets of Balfour Beatty, a global infrastructure company with operations in over 80 nations, in this article. We looked at the managerial structure of the business, its goods and services, pricing policies, methods of distribution, and marketing initiatives. We also looked at the company's hiring and selection procedures, talent management plans, and employee relations programmes. Due to its decentralised management structure, Balfour Beatty is nimble and adaptable to local market circumstances. The business provides a variety of goods and services, such as project management, engineering, and construction. It focuses on providing outstanding customer experiences and utilises a value-based pricing approach. It also has a strong online and physical presence. Balfour Beatty's recruiting and selection procedures are made to draw in a wide range of individuals, including graduates and apprentices, and its talent management methods place a priority on providing workers with chances for learning and growth. In order to encourage strong employee engagement and motivation, the organisation also offers a variety of employee relations programmes, such as performance reviews and recognition programmes. Based on our analysis, we have identified the following SWOT analysis for Balfour Beatty:

Strengths	Hierarchical management structure; Strong brand reputation Huge range of items Customer centric approach
Weakness	;Heavy reliant on government Exposure to financial downturn Limited online exposure
Opportunity	Development in emerging business sectors Investment in infrastructure Technological advancement Expansion through acquisition
Threats	Tough rivalry Political instability Fluctuating crude material costs Changes in government policies

Thusly, Balfour Beatty has a strong foundation overall and is well-positioned to use its advantages to seize fresh possibilities.

References

• Balfour Beatty. (2021). About us. Retrieved from https://www.balfourbeatty.com/who-we-are/about-us/
• Balfour Beatty. (2021). United States. Retrieved from https://www.balfourbeatty.com/our-locations/north-america/united-states/
• Balfour Beatty. (2021). United Kingdom. Retrieved from https://www.balfourbeatty.com/our-locations/europe/united-kingdom/
• Balfour Beatty. (2021). People and careers. Retrieved from https://www.balfourbeatty.com/careers/why-choose-balfour-beatty/people-and-careers/
• Balfour Beatty. (2021a). Board of Directors. Retrieved from https://www.balfourbeatty.com/who-we-are/governance/board-of-directors/
• Balfour Beatty. (2021b). Executive Committee. Retrieved from https://www.balfourbeatty.com/who-we-are/leadership/executive-committee/
• Balfour Beatty. (2021c). Construction Services - US. Retrieved from https://www.balfourbeatty.com/our-expertise/sectors/construction-services/us/
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