29
Strategic report
OCU Group | Annual report and financial statements 2025
Governance
Financial statements
CEO report
Advancing digital infrastructure This year our digital infrastructure capabilities have significantly expanded, a key area of growth that underscores our commitment to bridging digital divides and enhancing connectivity across the UK. The expansion of our fibre maintenance operations and the strategic deployment of fast fibre in rural areas, supported by government funding, have been instrumental in our efforts to ensure comprehensive digital access. With over 10 million premises still to connect and Openreach progressing towards full copper switch-off by 2027, long-term demand for fibre maintenance, upgrade and copper recovery is accelerating. Our ability to provide both installation and lifecycle maintenance services positions us as a key long-term delivery partner for network operators. A major highlight of the year was our organic win with VMO2 for two regions of their fibre maintenance, marking a pivotal shift from fibre installation to maintenance. This transition is critical in safeguarding the future of our digital infrastructure teams by aligning our operations with the ongoing needs for sustainable and robust digital networks. The VMO2 maintenance contract secured in FY25 has emerged as one of the top three growth events in OCU’s 30-year history. This achievement, alongside the strategic acquisition of RJ McLeod and the renewal of the Northern Powergrid (NPg) framework contract, underscores a significant year of organic and strategic growth. Enabling the growth of AI We are uniquely positioned in the market to address the burgeoning demand for data centre creation across the UK.
With our comprehensive capabilities spanning from fibre connections and trenchless cable routing to regulated power transmission, and the integration of renewable energy technology such as BESS, OCU is well equipped to meet the complex needs of modern digital infrastructures.
By enabling real-time data, reporting and analytics, OCU One helps identify potential safety issues before they become incidents, thus reinforcing a proactive safety management approach. This technology not only upholds our safety standards but also makes sure that all team members, from the front lines to the executive level, participate in a culture that prioritises safety above all. Through these efforts, we continue to cultivate an environment where safety comes first, protecting our team and stakeholders, and improving standards for safety and security. Looking forward As we move into FY26, OCU Group is poised to continue its momentum of growth and innovation. We look forward to the opportunities ahead and are committed to playing a pivotal role in making the world a better place to live and work. Our investments in technology, people, and processes are geared towards not just meeting but exceeding the expectations of our clients and the needs of the communities we serve. The long-term structural drivers in the UK’s energy transition, digital connectivity, and regulated utilities markets remain clear and compelling. OCU is uniquely positioned to support this transformation, combining national scale, technical expertise and disciplined delivery to meet rising demand and evolving client needs. Thank you for your continued support and belief in OCU. Together, we are not just part of the marketplace evolution; we are at the forefront. We will continue to accelerate change and shape futures, ensuring that OCU remains synonymous with excellence and innovation in the UK’s infrastructure landscape.
Our recruitment strategy focuses on harnessing local talent in the regions in which we operate, which has resulted in a UK-wide workforce that embodies strong and diverse capabilities. This localised approach not only supports community development but also makes sure that we have the robust and varied talent necessary to deliver exceptional service and innovation in our projects. We are shaping a workforce that is not only skilled and diverse but also deeply integrated into the fabric of the local communities. This strategy enhances our operational excellence and enriches the communities that are integral to our success, creating a cycle of growth and positive impact that extends beyond our immediate business interests. Safety as our first priority At OCU Group, safety is not just a priority but the constant non-negotiable in our operations. This year, we have further solidified our commitment to safety by successfully integrating our ‘Think Safe + Work Safe = Home Safe’ campaign across all newly acquired companies. This initiative, which is foundational to our operational ethos, makes sure that safety is deeply ingrained in every level of our organisation. It reflects our dedication to maintaining a secure working environment and shows our commitment to safeguard every person associated with our frameworks, projects and programs. Supporting this safety initiative, our advanced proprietary OCU One platform plays a pivotal role in enhancing and monitoring our safety culture. The platform facilitates comprehensive tracking and management of safety data, making it possible for us to maintain a high standard of safety oversight throughout our operations.
Nurturing community and employment At OCU Group, each strategic action we
undertake is not solely aimed at expanding our business but also at making a positive impact on the communities where we operate. Through initiatives like the OCU Careers Academy and our ongoing People First strategy, we are committed to creating substantial employment opportunities and developing a work environment that prioritises safety, wellbeing, and professional growth. This year, we are proud to highlight our gold accredited membership in the 5% Club, which underscores our commitment to developing early careers. With 7% of our UK workforce currently in earn and learn positions, we have exceeded the pledge to make sure that at least 5% of our team is made up of apprentices, sponsored students and graduates on formalised training schemes. This achievement reflects our ongoing investment in the future leaders of our industry. This initiative complements our efforts through the OCU Careers Academy, which has been instrumental in offering structured pathways for career development and skills enhancement across our operations. Additionally, our recognition as a Gold Partner in the UK Armed Forces Covenant demonstrates our commitment to supporting the armed forces community. This partnership reflects our dedication to providing opportunities for veterans, service leavers, and military families, recognising the unique skills and perspectives they bring to our workforce.
Michael Hughes Chief Executive Officer
Powered by FlippingBook