GBR Phoenix Beard bolsters FM team

L-R - Phil Arnold and Rod Witton (GBR Phoenix Beard)

Strong performance in GBR Phoenix Beard’s asset management team and an influx of new client instructions has led to the company appointing a number of new people within its facilities management (‘FM’) team. Phil Arnold, a Midlands-based FM with the company for the last ten years, is promoted to a newly created role as head of GBR Phoenix Beard’s FM team.  The company has also promoted Vicky Lee as a regional FM, as well as appointing Mick Armsby, Michelle Athey, Carl Ebanks, Rachel Holmes and Rachael Thompson to new FM roles based in different locations across the UK. GBR Phoenix Beard now has a total of 25 regional facilities managers (RFMs) providing national coverage (from Aberdeen to the Isle of Wight) who undertake regular checks on the managed portfolio.

Rod Witton who has director responsibilities for the firm’s FM practice said:

“In property management, change is constant.  We are investing heavily in this part of our business, recognising the vital role FMs play in delivering a holistic asset management service, and providing a regular and constant point of contact on the ground for occupiers at the sites we manage. Our eyes and ears on the ground, our RFMs ensure contractors fulfil their roles and comply with health and safety procedures.”

Phil Arnold added:

“The FM role is more involved than in the past, FMs have a much deeper understanding of the bigger picture. The scale and depth of our new team is a strong indication of the importance of FMs.  Two years ago we had just eight FMs!”

GBR Phoenix Beard’s asset management team operates from offices in Birmingham, London and more recently Leeds following its merger with Optic in January 2015.  Properties managed include mixed-use schemes, grade A office buildings, industrial and business parks, shopping centres and leisure facilities and residential developments.