Independent ground engineering contractor Van Elle has appointed Malcolm O'Sullivan, formerly managing director of Balfour Beatty Ground Engineering, to head its largest division.

The firm said the appointment follows changes at its piling division last year as chief executive Mark Cutler – who also previously worked for Balfour Beatty – continues to strengthen the contractor's leadership team.

Mr O'Sullivan (pictured) has been managing director of Balfour Beatty Ground Engineering since 2013, having joined Stent Foundations as a graduate engineer in 1997. He has 20 years' experience in ground engineering and deep foundation construction in the UK.

Mr Cutler said: ‘We are delighted to attract someone of Malcolm's calibre to join our leadership team as we continue our improvements towards our growth strategy. Malcolm will be leading our largest division and will add value across the Group with his operational and customer-focussed credentials.'

Mr O'Sullivan said: ‘I am really pleased to open a new chapter in my career by joining Van Elle at this exciting time in their journey. I look forward to growing the Piling division while supporting the development of opportunities and operational improvements across the wider Group.'

Van Elle recently confirmed its ‘record order book and growing strategic pipeline' ahead of its full year results expected in July.