ONE ROOF

we bring together our experts for the projects early on
to implement best practices based on experience. In
this way, our facility managers consult on projects as
early as the planning phase to enable optimal solutions
for subsequent operation.
Moreover, the megatrends of our time provide new
business opportunities for the companies within the
HOCHTIEF Group. Based on our life cycle approach,
we develop and implement solutions to meet today’s
social challenges. By doing business in a responsible
and holistic manner, we create new types of spaces for
people to live in. This allows us to respond to demographic
change—for example, with pioneering projects
such as urban districts that also offer administrative
and related services or apartments for seniors based
on a house community concept.
Expanding the service business
By offering services in construction-related segments,
we secure a stable income stream over the long term.
Services are less sensitive to cyclical fluctuations than
the classic construction business and therefore lend
stability to our product and service spectrum. Our service
portfolio ranges from construction planning and logistics
to facility and energy management services. We
assume major responsibilities for all services that reach
all the way to our clients’ core businesses. In 2009, we
expanded our service business as planned. For instance,
Leighton took on new responsibilities in this sector in
Australia, such as operation of Melbourne’s rail network.
Positioning as an attractive employer
Our human resources efforts aim to guarantee that
well-qualified employees are available to HOCHTIEF in
all areas and at all times. To make this happen, recruiting
and retaining employees is a top priority. We continually
work to maintain a healthy corporate culture at
HOCHTIEF along with the excellent reputation of our
Group. We are proud of the numerous awards that
HOCHTIEF received once again in 2009, including as
best employer in the real estate industry and as one of
the world’s most admired German companies.
❘ Information for our Shareholders ❘ ❘ Management Report ❘ ❘ Financial Statements and Notes ❘
Conservative financial policy for the long term
HOCHTIEF’s financial policy has always been conservative,
with great importance attached to robust risk
management—something which secured us a strong
and solid financial position even during the crisis. This
fact is also evidenced by a number of financing successes
in 2009 such as placement of the promissory
note loans (Schuldscheindarlehen) in May 2009 that were
more than 100 percent oversubscribed at the end of
the subscription period. Our financing is ensured for
the long term, and we possess the necessary flexibility
for new projects.
In view of the financial crisis, in 2009 we continued to
adhere overall to our strict project selection criteria that
are a traditional hallmark of our business.
Annual Report 2009 47