Mott MacDonald avoids 'corrupt' markets

Mott MacDonald has decided to steer away from several non-European countries and markets for the foreseeable future over increasing concerns of bid corruption.

Kevin Stovell, managing director of Mott MacDonald, told CJ: “What we’re doing is choosing not to work in some countries or, more often, in certain sectors in some countries for the time being because we think there are concerns over corruption.

“The corruption issue is often just part of the consideration, which may include factors such as payment risk or delay and staff security.”

Stovell was reluctant to reveal exactly which markets and countries the company was steering away from as a risk of souring future relations. However, he did indicate that the move related to countries outside Europe.

“Because we are hopeful the situation will get better, and we believe efforts are under way to make improvements, we don’t think we would help matters by being specific. We hold the same view regarding countries where we have chosen not to work at all at the moment.”

Asked when Mott MacDonald would return to the countries currently off its hitlist, Stovell said: “In relation to countries and sectors where we’re not currently participating, we keep these under frequent review and will consider them again as soon as their situations improve.”