Having joined Gleeds in 1980, Non-Executive Director Ken Reid has witnessed and contributed to Gleeds’ evolution significantly during his time with the business. As Head of our London office in the UK and in his role on Gleeds’ Group Board, his primary focus is on advising, supporting and encouraging our London leadership team to excel.
Ken was initially drawn to Gleeds by the variety offered within his cross-sector role and the chance to broaden his experience at the start of his career. As time went on, he was kept engaged and motivated by the range of opportunities provided by the built environment career path, which were beyond what he had envisaged.
No two days are the same for Ken, although he considers his highest priority to be his work with the team based in London, engaging with colleagues at all levels to ensure that they are motivated and enjoying their work. During his time at Gleeds, mentoring his teams and witnessing their progression has been one of the most rewarding parts of his role. He also enjoys working with clients to create new spaces that transform communities and have a positive impact on a local level.
Ken has been hugely influential in championing diversity and inclusion at Gleeds.
I like us creating the environment for anyone irrespective of their social background, their gender, race or sexuality to be themselves and to have the opportunity be successful. The feedback we are getting from our people and our visitors has been amazing and whilst proud of that, I recognise that there is a lot more to do.
As someone who has based his career with the company, Ken advises new and prospective joiners never to be afraid to ask questions, as well as doing some honest reflection on their own strengths and weaknesses to support their growth.
Outside of work, Ken enjoys watching elite spots and exploring genealogy. If he hadn’t pursued his current career path, he would have become a geneticist.