Jacobs Solutions (J) - 2025 Q2 - Earnings Call Transcript

Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - Adjusted EPS grew over 22% to $1.43, supported by solid year-over-year margin expansion [6][20] - Adjusted net revenue rose over 3% in Q2, with adjusted EBITDA for Q2 at$ 287 million, representing an 8% year-over-year increase [10][19] - Backlog grew 20% to more than $22 billion, a new record [6][20] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - PA Consulting's revenue growth reached mid-single digits, driving double-digit operating profit growth [6] - Adjusted net revenue growth for Water and Environmental was 2% in Q2, with expectations for mid to high single-digit growth in the second half [21] - Life Sciences and Advanced Manufacturing adjusted net revenue grew approximately 6% in Q2, with continued favorable demand [22] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - Approximately 9% of total revenue comes from U.S. Federal infrastructure and related services, primarily tied to DoD engagements [9] - The Middle East saw strong growth, continuing at double digits [43] - FX was a headwind in Q2, but a potential tailwind is anticipated for Q3 if rates remain stable [44] Company Strategy and Development Direction - The company aims to redefine the asset lifecycle for clients, focusing on high-growth markets such as water and environmental services [12][16] - Continued investment in PA Consulting is being considered to enhance the partnership and capitalize on growth opportunities [85] - The company is focused on delivering sustainable, profitable growth through differentiated, digitally enabled solutions [16] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - The geopolitical backdrop remains stable, with infrastructure and consulting services in high demand [8] - The company anticipates sequential revenue growth from Q2 to Q3, with Q3 net revenue expected to grow 5% to 7% year-over-year [29][30] - Management expressed confidence in achieving full-year guidance metrics despite macroeconomic uncertainties [29][114] Other Important Information - The company returned a record amount of capital to shareholders during Q2, with$ 351 million in share repurchases [26] - A final distribution of Momentum shares to shareholders is expected, representing approximately $159 million in incremental capital returns [27] Q&A Session Summary Question: Can you quantify the reserve for the JV matter and discuss customer spending? - Management indicated that while the procurement cycle is extending, there are no broad cancellations or delays in execution [36] Question: What are the regional dynamics, particularly in PA and the UK? - PA is experiencing strong growth, particularly in defense and security, while the UK business is rebounding with solid growth in transportation and water [40][42] Question: How do you expect free cash flow to convert this year? - Management expects a substantial step up in Q3 cash flow, not just back-end loaded in Q4, supporting the forecast of over 100% free cash flow conversion [50] Question: What are the expectations for profit margins in the third quarter? - The company anticipates significant margin improvement in Infrastructure and Advanced Facilities, with a target of close to 14% adjusted EBITDA margin [100] Question: How is the backlog growth related to project duration? - The company maintains a balanced approach to project sizes, focusing on both longer-duration projects and quicker-turnaround jobs [101][103]