GlobalData
2 min read
AtkinsRéalis Group, an engineering services and nuclear company, has appointed Louis G. Véronneau as its new chief operating officer (COO), effective 23 August 2025.
Véronneau, who is rejoining the company, will operate out of Montréal. He is set to head the company's global operations, encompassing areas such as transformation, strategy, technology, mergers and acquisitions (M&A), deliver work, and global communications.
The COO role is pivotal in driving operational excellence within AtkinsRéalis, ensuring that all enterprise-wide initiatives are in line with the company's financial and strategic objectives.
The company stated that the M&A team will report to Véronneau to align strategy, acquisitions and transformation.
Véronneau, with more than three decades of leadership experience in various sectors, including investment management and infrastructure, is expected to be instrumental in advancing the company's margin improvement agenda.
His expertise in execution, accelerating transformation, and optimising delivery models is anticipated to support the business.
He rejoins AtkinsRéalis after his recent tenure as senior managing director and global head of Real Estate Investments at PSP Investments, where he managed a global portfolio worth around $38bn.
In addition, Kate Kenny will assume the role of chief growth officer, based in London, starting 1 September 2025.
Kenny will be tasked with leading the company's global growth strategy, which includes managing the Global Technology Centre, Win Work, marketing, government relations, and global capabilities.
Her role is stated to be crucial for driving “sustainable, profitable growth” and enhancing client engagement and market presence.
Kenny's background in infrastructure, consulting, and urban development, including her most recent position as executive vice president and general manager for Jacobs' European business, is said to position her as a key player in AtkinsRéalis' growth and innovation efforts.
AtkinsRéalis president and CEO Ian L. Edwards said: "Louis will build on the strong foundation of our transformation journey to drive the next phase of operational excellence and margin improvement. Kate will lead our global growth agenda, strengthening client engagement and expanding our market presence. Together with our broader leadership team, they will help accelerate our strategy and deliver long-term value for our clients and shareholders."
These executive changes follow the planned departure of Philip Hoare, the current COO, who will step down in the summer of 2025 to explore new professional opportunities.
