Esh named among UK’s best managed companies

A construction firm is celebrating national recognition for its business excellence and growth.

Esh Group, headquartered in County Durham and employing over 800 people, has been named as one of the UK’s 'Best Managed Companies' in 2025. 

The award – an initiative of Deloitte Private – recognises organisations excelling in strategy, culture, innovation, governance and financial performance. 

Esh is among only ten UK private companies honoured this year and one of four from the North East to win. 

Andy Radcliffe, chief executive at Esh Group, said: “I am immensely proud that Esh Group has been announced as one of the UK’s Best Managed Companies 2025. 

“We have been on a journey of transformation over recent years, with everyone in all areas of the business stepping up, pulling together and working incredibly hard to navigate the challenges the industry has faced, all the while embodying our mission, vision and values.

“Our business is in excellent shape, and we’re making huge strides in every area of our strategy. 

“To have this recognised externally through the prestigious Best Managed Companies programme really is a humbling moment.”

Esh’s robust project portfolio includes major schemes such as the Tyne Bridge Restoration, Seaham Garden Village and Stockton Waterfront Urban Park, while the company was recently announced as the sole delivery partner for Northumbrian Water Group’s £160 million Wastewater Networks Framework.

Andy added: “Our long-term vision is clear and we are strongly positioned to navigate the ups, downs and challenges that all businesses face, while carrying forward the proud legacy that has been built over the last 50 years.”

John McCabe, chief executive of the North East Chamber of Commerce, added: “It’s fantastic to see North East businesses recognised on a national stage for their leadership, innovation and long-term success. 

“The Deloitte UK Best Managed programme rewards excellence across strategy, culture, capabilities and governance – qualities that run deep in our region and make the North East such a brilliant place to live and work.”

This is the inaugural year of Deloitte Private’s UK’s Best Managed Companies awards, with the programme already established in the Americas, Europe and Asia Pacific.

Claire Evans, Deloitte Private partner and UK Best Managed Companies leader, added: “The Best Managed Companies programme celebrates the passion, resilience and focus on sustainable growth that are hallmarks of the UK’s leading private businesses.

“These businesses are purpose-driven, disciplined, and industry-leading. 

“They are confidently navigating the future and setting an inspiring standard for success among private businesses in the UK.”

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