News & Events

Growth trajectory bolstered by BGF investment

Our expansion plans have taken a major step forward this week thanks to investment from the UK and Ireland’s most active growth capital investor, BGF.

The institution, which predominantly supports SMEs, has invested £5 billion in 650 businesses since 2011 and has taken a minority shareholding in the business.

Underpinning the acceleration of our long-term growth plans, the investment will support our systems, technology, service offer and presence across the UK. Alongside accelerating our continued organic expansion, it will also fund selective acquisitions.  

Whilst a new chapter for the firm, we will retain the independence we’ve proudly maintained for 76 years, alongside our commitment to fostering a culture of belonging, inclusion and hands-on directors.

Having marked our 75th anniversary in 2025, the past 12 months have been pivotal for Harley Haddow, playing host to three office openings, the launch of multiple new services, several senior appointments and the acquisition of a specialist fire consultancy.

In order to guide the business through its next chapter, director Marc McLuskey has been appointed CEO. He will be joined by two new board members, Charles Layfield, who has significant experience in scaling professional services businesses and John Devine, BGF investor. 

Marc McLuskey, CEO of Harley Haddow, said: “Harley Haddow has built a strong reputation over 75 years by combining deep technical expertise with a highly personal approach to clients. We are now a UK-wide consultancy employing nearly 200 people, with a strong platform from which to continue expanding our geographic reach and service offering.

“BGF’s minority investment model will allow us to accelerate our growth ambitions while ensuring Harley Haddow remains independently managed, with our existing leadership team, culture and values firmly in place. BGF’s experience in the built environment sector, collaborative approach and alignment with our ambitions made them the right partner to support the next stage of our journey.”

John Devine, Investor at BGF, added: “Harley Haddow combines 75 years of engineering expertise with the ambition and momentum of a high-growth business. The team has built a strong national platform whilst maintaining the culture, technical quality and client relationships that differentiate the business.

BGF has long-standing experience supporting growth companies across engineering and the wider built environment, including successful exits from Hydrock and BB7.

Thanks to a focus on strategic growth and industry‑leading innovation, alongside a commitment to reposition ourselves as a long‑term trusted advisor, we’ve increased capacity, capability and coverage across the business. Our step-change has resulted in better time & cost efficiencies and a stronger offer; all things we’re going to continue building on following BGF’s investment.

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