RT Dooley specialises in corporate headquarters, corporate interiors/fit-out and “mission critical” work such as data centres and call centres. Its activities are complementary to Balfour Beatty Construction US’ South East division, which is also based in Charlotte.

Commenting on the acquisition, Balfour Beatty chief executive, Ian Tyler, said:

“RT Dooley is a high-quality business with a leading position in its markets. As customers seek an expanded range of services from the same supplier, combining our capabilities with RT Dooley enhances our ability to meet customers’ needs.”

RT Dooley’s customers include Bank of America, Wachovia, Duke Energy and Lowes. It had 2008 revenues of c$300m, operating profit of c$7m and net cash of c$10m.

RT Dooley's business model relies on qualification-based tendering, where the final cost is agreed with the client after design is substantially complete and prices and contracts have been agreed with sub-contractors. This business model is the same model that is successfully used by Balfour Beatty Construction US.

The management, including David and Bob Dooley, will remain with the business in their current leadership roles.