Q&A with Mackenzie Construction’s New Project Manager, Mick Balmforth

Mackenzie Construction continues to strengthen its presence across England, building on a strong pipeline of civil engineering and structural refurbishment projects for clients including Severn Trent. To support this growth, Mick Balmforth has joined the business as Project Manager, bringing more than 30 years of experience in structural refurbishment and infrastructure.

We sat down with Mick to learn more about his career, what attracted him to Mackenzie Construction and his plans for the future.

Q: Tell us a bit about your background and how you got into project management and construction.

It’s been a long journey, going back to before the 1990s. I started on the tools as a general operative and spent many years on the London Underground, carrying out tunnel refurbishments, station repairs and remedial works. I developed my skills quickly and progressed from chargehand to Site Manager and then Operations Manager, eventually overseeing all London Underground operations for the company I was working for at the time. I’ve spent more than 30 years working in structural refurbishment, delivering the type of projects Mackenzie Construction specialises in. It’s been the focus of my whole career.

Q: What roles and projects have shaped your career so far? Are there any particular schemes you’re especially proud to have worked on?

There have been quite a few. I’ve worked for several of the major names in the structural refurbishment sector and managed some significant projects along the way. These include the M5 Oldbury Viaduct, which was the largest concrete repair project in Europe at the time; Merrion Street Multi-Storey Car Park, which was then Europe’s largest carbon fibre strengthening project; and the North Bridge refurbishment in Edinburgh. Alongside these schemes, I’ve also delivered several projects in the water industry, so working with clients such as Severn Trent isn’t entirely new territory for me. I also spent around six months in the Middle East on a technically challenging project to replace the first-floor slab of a hotel damaged by a basement fire, while construction continued on the floors above. One of the highlights of my career came in November 2025, when a project I managed won Large Project of the Year at the Concrete Repair Association Awards in Glasgow. If I remember correctly, it just edged out a Mackenzie Construction project into second place.

Q: What attracted you to Mackenzie Construction and this opportunity?

Timing played a big part. I’d spent four years with Balvac, part of Balfour Beatty, delivering similar structural refurbishment projects, mainly across highways and rail infrastructure. Like a lot of people at that stage of their career, I was ready for a new challenge. I was approached about the role and was already familiar with Mackenzie Construction’s reputation. After meeting the team and speaking to several mutual contacts, all of whom spoke highly of the business, it felt like the right fit. I saw the chance to help drive Mackenzie Construction’s growth in England, and that was something I wanted to be part of.

Q: What stood out to you during the recruitment process?

My conversations with the team were a major factor. Everyone I met came across as genuine, approachable and passionate about the business. Many of the workforce have been with Mackenzie Construction for a long time, and I think that says a lot about the company. The ambition for growth in England also stood out. The business has clear plans for development, and I’m excited to help deliver them.

Q: What have your first impressions been of the business and its culture since joining?

The culture has been excellent. It’s very family-oriented, and people go out of their way to make you feel welcome. From day one, I was made to feel part of the team, and everyone has been supportive. It’s a positive place to work and, quite simply, it’s made me look forward to coming in each day.

Q: Has anything surprised you, in a positive way, since you started?

The people, without a doubt. I genuinely haven’t heard anyone speak negatively about the business or their colleagues. There’s a strong sense of teamwork throughout the organisation, and people are always willing to help one another, often going beyond what’s expected.

Q: What will you be focusing on during your first few months as Project Manager?

I’m currently working through the three-month onboarding process, but I’m keen to get fully involved and support the team wherever I can. I’ve already seen the strength of the project pipeline, and I’m looking forward to taking ownership of projects and contributing to the team’s success.

Q: What do you see as the biggest priorities in delivering successful projects, and how do you approach them?

For me, successful projects come down to effective planning and having the right team around you. What impresses me most at Mackenzie Construction is the willingness of people at every level to contribute ideas and support one another, from the Board of Directors through to the site teams. There’s always someone willing to share their experience or offer a different perspective, and that collaborative approach makes a real difference to how projects are delivered.

Q: Finally, what keeps you busy outside of work?

Clay pigeon shooting is probably my biggest hobby, and I try to get out every weekend when I can. When I’m not doing that, I enjoy playing the guitar. Family is also a huge part of my life. Between spending time with my wife, children and grandchildren, there isn’t a great deal of spare time left.

I’m grateful for the opportunity to join Mackenzie Construction and looking forward to playing an important role in the team’s success as the business continues to grow.