Linden Homes has promoted Richard Crook to commercial director for the South West region.
Having joined the company 15 years ago as a trainee surveyor, Richard has worked his way up through the business as a surveyor, senior commercial manager and most recently, as the head of commercial. He is now responsible for a team of 10 people and oversees the timely procurement of materials to build a development, from land purchase to completion.
Richard, 39, has also worked for his family’s building business and has an HNC. A keen golfer, he lives in Torquay with his fiancée and two children.
Commenting on his new appointment, Richard said: “I’m delighted with my promotion. It’s fantastic to have worked for a company for so long and then to have your hard work and loyalty recognised. I love the job but there are challenges – there is a growing skills shortage in construction and there are longer lead-in times for certain materials. Not only have we had to do a lot of work with our experienced suppliers and subcontractors, but we’ve had to ensure we plan and order well ahead, while also focusing on training and development too. Our strategy has been successful and we have a strong team in place.”
Speaking about his background, Richard said: “The traineeship enabled me to learn on the job and gain valuable experience – although it does feel like a very long time ago! We now have two trainee quantity surveyors in the team and it’s great to be mentoring them.”
Bradley Davison, managing director of Linden Homes South West, said: “Richard has a lot of knowledge when it comes to buying, managing our budgets and forging important links with our suppliers and subcontractors. He’s a real asset to the company and we’re pleased to see him promoted.
“We have seven trainees in the South West region at the moment and Richard is proof that it’s a great route into the industry.”
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Media can contact Emma Mackay on 077383 12960 for more information, images and interviews with Linden Homes.
