Peter Burns is a Senior Director and Service Line Lead responsible for overseeing the performance of the Cost Management teams across the North of England, including Newcastle, Leeds, Manchester and Liverpool.
His days are varied, but one constant is an early start with his labrador, Ava (also Gleeds Newcastle office's wellbeing champion!). Daily walks with Ava help clear his mind before a busy schedule filled with regular meetings with other service line leads, regional directors, cost management leads and various stakeholders. His main responsibilities include bidding, handling administrative and financial reporting, addressing personnel matters, business development and client meetings.
Peter is driven by a passion for helping his regional teams deliver an exceptional service to our clients, fostering business development and nurturing the next generation of professionals. Initially working in office equipment sales, Peter sought a more fulfilling career path and after an inspirational conversation with a quantity surveyor friend, he attended Northumbria University as a mature student, further fuelling his determination to succeed. Although Peter has delivered numerous notable projects - including his first complete project, Aqua Vale Swimming Centre, in Aylesbury - his greatest pride is in the development of his colleagues. Seeing those he has mentored grow into professionals and future leaders brings him most joy.
Peter was drawn to Gleeds by its people-centric approach. He joined Gleeds 27 years ago during a year-out university position and then full-time after his graduation. The supportive and inclusive culture he experienced then continues to be a hallmark of his career at Gleeds. Peter advises new team members to engage with their colleagues on both professional and personal levels. The supportive environment at Gleeds ensures that everyone is invested in each other's success, building a united team.
Peter says of the organisation’s values:
Gleeds embodies professionalism with personality – it’s that personal touch where people deal with people; we have to deliver our services to the highest standards, but we must connect with our clients and colleagues on a human level. This is how we are a real people business.
Outside of work, Peter enjoys the outdoors – either being outside with his labrador, or supporting his daughter's passion for horses, having been her dedicated wagon driver and groom for over 12 years as she competes in dressage up to national level.