Pierson to head PB

Parsons Brinckerhoff has appointed George J. Pierson as its CEO, effective from January 1. He will succeed Keith J. Hawksworth, who will become chairman, succeeding James L. Lammie, who is retiring.

Mr Pierson is currently president and chief operating officer of the company's Americas division, a position he has held since January 2008. He will continue with these responsibilities in the New Year, alongside his new role as CEO.

Mr Pierson joined Parsons Brinckerhoff in February 2006 as general counsel. Prior to this he was a partner and director of the International Construction Practice Group of law firm Peckar & Abramson. He holds a Juris Doctor (JD) law degree from Harvard Law School and a masters of Business Administration (MBA) from St Mary's College in California, as well as degrees in civil engineering from Bucknell University and the University of California at Berkeley.

"George has performed brilliantly in progressively responsible leadership positions since joining PB," said Mr Hawksworth. "His elevation to CEO is a logical progression and ensures that PB has the right leadership going forward."

Parsons Brinckerhoff has 15000 employees at 150 offices worldwide. Its revenues in 2009 are expected to hit US$ 2.1 billion. In October, the company was acquired by Balfour Beatty, but continues to operate under its own brand.