Babcock names new Group CEO

Babcock International Group has announced the appointment of Harry Holt as its next Group CEO, replacing previous incumbent David Lockwood, who will step down at the end of 2026.

Holt currently serves as CEO of Babcock’s Nuclear division, and previously spent seven years on the executive team of Rolls-Royce, including as President of that company’s Nuclear division, and later as Chief People Officer.

Throughout the transition, Holt will serve in the newly created role of Deputy CEO, joining the board in June, before succeeding Lockwood as CEO in the new year.

“It has been my privilege to lead Babcock, through a period that has seen the Covid-19 pandemic, international geopolitical unrest, and an increased focus on global security,” said Lockwood. “I am delighted that the board has chosen Harry to succeed me. Harry has been a key member of my senior management team. His skills, expertise, and deep knowledge of the business make him the ideal person to drive Babcock forward and I look forward to supporting this transition.”

Alongside its other roles, Babcock is a major provider of aviation services to the special missions sector, serving as aviation partner to a number of air ambulance operators, including in Canada and the UK, and to border control agencies in countries such as Australia.