Atkins has appointed John Batterbee to lead its new Applied Technology Practice, which has been formed in response to a growing demand for digital and technology capabilities across Atkins’ markets.

In his new role, Batterbee will bring together and expand Atkins’ existing expertise in digital strategy and architecture, complex technology integration and sophisticated data analytics and visualisation into a comprehensive service to help clients unlock the benefits of digital transformation. 

A particular focus will be embedding a people-focussed philosophy into the practice to deliver holistic solutions centred around the user experience for clients and their customers.

Batterbee joins Atkins from Costain where he was the technology solutions director, responsible for helping clients navigate digital disruption and realise the value of technology transformation. He has delivered client solutions across a diverse range of sectors including defence, energy, transport and water.

Andy Finch, managing director of the Aerospace, Defence, Security and Technology division at Atkins, said: “From capitalising on interconnectivity to innovating to meet Net Zero targets, our clients face an unprecedented number of opportunities and disruptions. John’s appointment will help us bring together a seamless end-to-end set of services to help our clients harness the power of data and technology, and digitally transform with agility, pace and resilience.”

On his appointment, Batterbee said: “As the world becomes ever more digitally integrated, new opportunities as well as resilience risks continue to arise. By understanding these challenges and providing holistic solutions, we can help clients realise the full potential of new technologies. I’m incredibly proud to lead the next chapter in growing these services and helping clients unlock the benefits of current technology trends such as digital twins, Internet of Things and artificial intelligence.”