Global property and construction consultancy Gleeds has appointed managing director of its European division David Johnson to the new role of Group COO..
David, who has been with Gleeds for over 40 years, will become a member of the executive board on 1st March.
In his new position, he will return to the UK from Spain where he has been based to apply his experience of inspiring teams and navigating the complexities of the expanding global business.
David will oversee operations across all regions, optimising processes and driving cross-functional collaboration.
Salar Farzad, who previously held the COO role will retain the position of Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and assume the new responsibilities of Chief Administrative Officer (CAO).
As dual CFO and CAO, Salar will oversee Gleeds’ financial strategy, ensure fiscal responsibility, and provide oversight for various administrative functions.
His strategic mindset and financial acumen will be instrumental in ensuring that the business’ resources align with its ambitious long-term goals.
Richard Steer, Chair of Gleeds Worldwide, tells FM Magazine: "David is one of our longest-serving senior executives, originally joining Gleeds in 1983 and growing his expertise over four decades.
As a result, he has unparalleled knowledge of the business, so is the ideal candidate for this position.
I’m grateful to Salar, who has acted as a driving force behind our recent operational success, helped deliver our migration to LLP status and is playing a pivotal role in creating a solid foundation upon which David can build.
“With this excellent team, working alongside the rest of the Operations Board, we are now well-placed to take full advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead.
Over the last four years, Gleeds has achieved a cumulative average revenue growth rate of nearly 15 per cent with record group profitability in 2024.
We are on a tremendous trajectory of sustainable growth and David’s previous attainment in developing our European operations stand him in good stead to continue that success worldwide.”
David adds, “I an extremely proud that my career has been spent helping Gleeds grow.
I have seen us evolve from a predominantly UK-focused cost consultancy into the global, multi-disciplinary organisation it is today.
It’s been a privilege to have been involved in that journey and I look forward to continuing it as Chief Operating Officer, supporting colleagues and clients as we begin the next exciting chapter.”
The latest changes to the operating structure coincide with the business’ relocation to its new Fitzrovia HQ, as it prepares to take up residence at 60 Berners Street in March.
