Reporting directly to group chief executive, Leo Quinn, he will have responsibility for the construction group’s £1.1bn infrastructure investments portfolio across the UK and US.

Russell will also be a member of Balfour Beatty’s group executive committee.

Prior to his appointment, Russell had a number of strategic roles within Balfour Beatty, most recently as finance director of Balfour Beatty’s Major Projects, Highways and Investments businesses.

Previously, he was group financial controller.

Having joined Balfour Beatty in 2014, Gavin is testament to the organisation’s ongoing commitment to attracting, developing and retaining talented individuals to provide the high-quality leadership required to drive forward world-class infrastructure.

Leo Quinn, Balfour Beatty Group chief executive, said: “Our Infrastructure Investments business has long been core to Balfour Beatty’s business model.

“With a continuation of its strategy of investment in attractive new opportunities and disposal of assets timed to optimise value and maximise returns, Infrastructure Investments has a strong positive trajectory. I am therefore delighted to appoint Gavin as CEO with responsibility for driving the portfolio forward.”