Balfour Beatty Group Chief Executive Leo Quinn has been appointed Life President of The 5% Club, the UK-wide charity he founded in 2013 to champion skills development and tackle youth unemployment.
This honorary appointment signals a major milestone in The 5% Club’s journey—from a bold initiative into a nationwide movement driving employer-led change in early career opportunities. Established with the vision that at least 5% of a company’s workforce should be in “earn and learn” positions, the Club now includes over 1,200 member organisations, representing more than 1.95 million employees. Among them are 88,000 apprentices, 22,000 graduates, and 10,000 sponsored students.
Balfour Beatty, a founding member, has exceeded the Club’s benchmark, with 7.4% of its workforce in structured learning roles. This demonstrates not only alignment with the Club’s mission, but also a deep corporate commitment to developing future talent.
Quinn’s new role recognises his instrumental leadership in shaping the Club’s vision and impact. As Life President, he will continue to play a strategic role, acting as an ambassador, advisor, and champion for its next chapter of growth.
Speaking at the House of Lords, where his appointment was announced, Quinn reflected:
“I founded The 5% Club to address the dual issues of youth unemployment and the national skills gap. A decade on, I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished—creating real opportunities and shifting mindsets across industry. But with nearly a million young people still not in education, employment or training, there is more to be done. Life Presidency is not just an honour—it’s a renewed commitment to this vital cause.”
As Life President, Quinn will hold a permanent seat on the Club’s Business Leadership Council and represent the organisation across sectors, including policy and industry forums.
Ozlem Gunduz Robinson, Chair of Trustees at The 5% Club, commented:
“Leo Quinn’s unwavering belief in social mobility and corporate responsibility has inspired business leaders across the UK. His appointment is both a tribute to his legacy and a reaffirmation of the Club’s founding principles.”
With nearly 987,000 young people aged 16–24 in the UK still not engaged in education, employment or training, The 5% Club’s mission remains critically important. Evidence continues to show that early career opportunities yield powerful results—94% of Level 2 apprentices progress into employment or further education, with 78% reporting meaningful personal growth.
Quinn’s continued involvement ensures the Club remains a driving force in creating a skilled, inclusive workforce for the future.
