People - BW - Workplace Experts

It takes a great team to build great cities. Here are some of the key members of ours.

Eden Altura

Senior Sustainability Manager

Eden started her career as a mechanical engineer but found her real passion in sustainability – helping projects cut environmental impacts from concept to completion. Now, as one of BW’s Senior Sustainability Managers, Eden drives innovative thinking and solutions for the fit-out out world. Of a weekend, you’ll usually find her on a tennis court in the UK, surfing, or buried in a good book.

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Chris Brain

Lead Design Manager

With over 20 years of experience in the London Commercial Fit Out industry, Chris has delivered a wide range of high-spec office and commercial interiors. With his passion for creating functional, well-crafted spaces Chris works closely with clients, contractors, and consultants across the capital, with a focus on quality, efficiency and bringing design vision to life. Outside of work, he’s an active and adventurous person who enjoys snowboarding, climbing, scuba diving, and spending time in the gym. Travelling and exploring new cultures is another big part of his life, as are creative hands-on hobbies like arts and crafts.

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Collaborate to deliver great projects together

Matthew Salisbury

Project Director

Matthew has been part of the construction industry for 25 years, beginning his journey as an assistant site agent while completing his HND in Building Studies on day release. Over the years, he has gained experience across various sectors, with the last 15 years focused on commercial fit-out and construction. What drives him? Delivering top-notch schemes every time. He’s also really interested in how technology and AI can help us up our quality game. Outside work, Matthew is a keen golfer and a big sports fan, especially football, cricket, and golf. He’s a proud dad of two and loves watching his kids grow. When he’s not on the course or supporting his favourite teams, you’ll find him enjoying family dog walks or keeping fit by competing in Hyrox events.

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Adrian Defendi

Lead Design Manager

With 18 years in fit out, Adrian’s worked across high-end residential, retail and commercial, from the design side through to manufacturing, subcontracting and main contracting. He’s held roles as a designer, draughtsman and design manager, bringing a hands-on understanding to every project. With a degree in product design and a black belt in Wado-Ryu Karate, he combines creative thinking with serious discipline. Italian by heritage, married with three kids (including identical twin girls), he’s into fitness, food and a good laugh, preferably at a stand-up show.

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Miranda Samson

Head of Sustainibility

Miranda has over 10 years’ experience in construction, starting out on-site before moving into sustainability. She’s since led the delivery of BREEAM, LEED and WELL certifications, and helped deliver BW’s first Net Zero projects. Passionate about building better, she works closely with clients and supply chains to drive real, measurable change. Outside of work, you’ll find her with family, planning her next holiday or belting out the Frozen soundtrack with her two-year-old.

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deliver success for all clients.

Gavin Nelson

Project Director

Gavin has been part of the BW business and journey since 2011 and has delivered many successful and prestigious projects during this time. Gavin has a reputation amongst project stakeholders for his collaborative approach, an approach he firmly believes is fundamental for the achievement of his project’s successes. A keen sportsman Gavin is a tennis player and holds the position of Chairman at his local tennis club. Gavin has 3 children and enjoys spending time with his family when he is not working on project and BW business matters.

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Vasil Shantov

Project Director

Vas joined BW in 2008 as a Site Manager and has grown with the business over the years, becoming a key part of the team. Before joining BW, he built his career from the ground up, working through various site supervisory roles and trades within the Fit Out industry. This hands-on experience gives him a strong understanding of what it takes to deliver high-quality projects including the amazing Virgin Media O2 Project. Known for his empathy, reliability, and client-focused approach, Vas is someone who thrives on solving problems and keeping things moving smoothly. Outside of work, he’s a proud dad to two young daughters. When he’s not spending time with them, you’ll likely find him in the kitchen cooking, cycling to and from work, or trying to squeeze in a quiet moment to read.

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Julian Eley

Project Director

Julian joined BW back in 2013 as a Construction Manager and has been an integral part of the team ever since. Starting his career as a site carpenter, he brings a wealth of hands-on experience and a genuine understanding of the construction world. Colleagues know him for his calm, organised approach and his attention to detail, qualities that help him consistently deliver top-quality results. Outside of work, Julian is a proud dad to two wonderful kids. He’s also a keen runner, a big Formula 1 fan, and always up for a sunny day at the beach.

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Deliver quality, on time and to exacting standards

Lee Thomas

Project Director

Lee has over 25 years experience in construction starting in the industry as a Carpenter working his way through the ranks to Project Director having delivered many high-end commercial projects along the way. Having worked on some of Europe’s largest and most complexed projects, Lee brings in depth buildability knowledge, planning and programme management capabilities, supported by strong contractual knowledge. His passion for delivering quality, on time and to exacting standards, drives both him and his team to exceed expectations. A lifelong martial arts fan, Lee loves all things full-contact – though after a few injuries, he now prefers cheering from the sidelines.

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build new relationships

Madeleine Fennell

Business Development Manager

Madeleine has joined BW after working with clients and businesses in the Financial Services for 10 years, bringing with her a wealth of account management experience. For Madeleine, each relationship built is a new adventure, keeping the job intriguing as no two clients, projects, or businesses are ever completely the same. Continuously improving and managing these important relationships is fundamental to the BW process, and she is excited to be a part of it.

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embrace challenges

Vinay Kerai

Commercial Director

Vinay’s career in construction began at the age of 20 during an industrial placement, inspired by his father’s background in carpentry. At 23, he joined BW as an Assistant Commercial Manager and has since progressed to the role of Commercial Director. His passion for the industry has been instrumental in both his personal development and the company’s growth. Outside of work, Vinay is an avid traveler & adventurer who embraces challenges and thrives on high-adrenaline activities—bringing a dynamic energy to his role, despite the traditionally risk-averse nature of his profession.

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deliver great work for our clients

Gary Harris

Estimating & Supply Chain Director

Gary joined BW in 2022, bringing with him over 30 years of experience in estimating, cost control, and general contract management and administration within the construction industry. A strong and focused estimating team is crucial to BW’s growth, and such a team requires an experienced and dedicated leader. Gary has extensive experience in leading highly successful teams, which he has now brought to BW. At the very heart of BW are our preferred and preferred plus subcontractors. Gary is working hand-in-hand with our supply chain to nurture these key relationships – ensuring they develop into true, long term partnerships.

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champion each other’s ambitions.

Andrew Bradley

CFO / MD Design & Build

Andrew joined BW in June 2016. His career started in public practice before settling into the business-to-business service sector and working for design, architectural and fit out companies. He has worked in fit out for over two decades as a Finance and Managing Director. Andrew is obsessed with Ipswich Town, and travels from the Cotswolds daily to ensure we remain in complete control of our finances.

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transform a variety of unusual and creative spaces.

Darren Walsh

Technical Services Director

Having begun his journey in the building services sector during his secondary school days through a part-time job in ductwork fabrication and installation, Darren pursued a HND Diploma in Building Services. His career further developed over five years in a building services practice, where he honed his skills in designing and drawing services. This blend of practical, hands-on installation experience and formal education laid a robust foundation for his career progression. Darren moved to London in 2003, influenced by his future wife. His London career began with a seven-year tenure as a TSM at a competing firm before joining BW in 2010. Here, he excelled as a senior TSM and was recently promoted to lead the TSM department, aiming to instil consistency and high standards in BW’s project deliveries.

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Phil Prothero

Project Director

A highly experienced and respected leader in the construction industry for nearly 20 years, Phil’s impressive career includes landmark projects such as The Shard, Chelsea Barracks, and the £160m Peterborough Court refurbishment. He has led complex programmes across all phases with a focus on quality, innovation, and team development. His calm composed style means he keeps a steady head delivering fast-paced office fit outs and larger and more complex refurbishment projects. He ensures his clients, team and the community in which they work have a world-class project experience from start to finish. Phil also enjoys running, whether it’s a forest run to clear his mind or running around after his adventurous son taking him to football training, swimming lessons, the golf range, soft plays, and more.

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cultivate a workspace of excellence and enjoyment.

Aaron Carvalho

Contracts Manager

Aaron brought 18 years of high-end experience to BW. From bench joiner to Contracts Manager, he has been involved in delivering some of the most desirable hotels and properties across the world. He brings his keen eye for detail and ‘can do approach’ to the business ensuring client expectations are continuously exceeded.

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challenge the status quo.

Helen Lowe

Business Development Director

Helen joined BW with 6 years professional design experience – RIBA stage 1-7. She is ambitious, enjoys a challenge and is looking forward to utilising her past professional experience to excel in the role of BDM at BW. Helen enjoys meeting new people and is excited to meet clients and find out their project needs.

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John Wozniak

Sustainability Manager

John brings a wealth of sustainability expertise to BW, honed through years in Local Government and a top-tier London office furniture practice. He thrives on the technical challenges of sustainability, where every project differs. A passionate advocate for pragmatic design and precision delivery, John believes the office fit-out sector is setting the pace for decarbonisation across the construction industry.

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practice what we preach.

Barnaby Smith

Project Director – Design & Build

Barnaby has a resilient, professional and assertive style which has earned him the trust of many clients since joining the construction industry almost 15 years ago. In more recent years, being successful in engaging with commercial occupier clients; taking them on the design and build journey and ultimately handing over a fit-for-purpose and aesthetically pleasing workspace. Outside of work, Barnaby loves watching motorsport, coaching junior rugby (his boy currently plays U7s!) and riding his motorcycle in faraway places.

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have a coffee with our clients and really listen.

Freya McGhee

Client Partnership Director

Freya’s curious mind and dedication to understanding client needs and the current market give her unique insights, which she shares while talking with consultants and occupiers. Freya looks forward to developing existing relationships and building new ones over cups of coffee and the occasional beer.

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create purposeful relationships and help people thrive.

Jonathan Fassihi

Project Director

With over 20 years in the construction and fit-out industry, Jonathan has a proven ability in securing and delivering complex high-end projects whilst managing and promoting a culture of teamwork. Beginning his career as a trainee engineer, Jonathan’s drive and determination helped him quickly progress through the ranks into project management. Throughout this time, Jonathan has obtained extensive knowledge and experience within the hospitality, commercial refurbishment and fit out sectors.

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create emotional bridges between people, place and space.

Daniel Callegari

Design & Build Director

With over 20 years’ experience in interior design, Dan has lead and learnt from creative teams within both local and international organisations. In exploring the value that the design process can deliver, whilst focusing on creating meaningful client relationships, Dan consistently demonstrates his passion for creating a sensory and emotional bridge between people, space and place. Dan is now focused on applying his experience toward supporting BW in becoming a leader in holistic innovation and transformation within the Interior Design and Build sector.

William McDonagh

Construction Director

As Construction Director, Will takes operational leadership for Team P’ng, steering BW towards continued success and growth in both the team and the business. Will is also a champion of Defect-Free delivery, working closely with key supply chain partners, fostering ongoing and new client relationships, and ensuring client satisfaction. Bringing over a decade of expertise in the UK fit-out industry, Will has been involved in major projects across London and its surrounding areas, accumulating a wealth of invaluable experience and insight along the way.

Matt Patel

Project Director

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catch up with clients over flat whites and scrambled eggs on toast.

Henry Strickland

Key Consultant Programme Director

Henry started his career in recruitment in Devon where he worked for two years. He then decided to move to the big smoke so relocated to London to pursue a career in business development within construction. Henry has been with the business for over seven years where he has been working on building new client relationships and this has recently led to taking the next step up and become a Key Consultant Programme Director. Henry really enjoys meeting new people and learning about their key drivers, personally and project-specific, as well as, building meaningful relationships.

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deliver and smash it.

Kevin P’ng

Managing Director

There are rumours that he has a spreadsheet for absolutely everything, and he apparently moonlights as a nightclub DJ, which could explain his habit of sending emails throughout the night – as well as the vast quantities of coffee (and tequila) he consumes! Regardless, what we do know for sure is that Kevin has a passion for numbers, problem-solving, and helping to deliver successful workplaces, from complex refurbishments to fast-track fit-outs.

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collaborate on stunning spaces with our clients.

Kevin French

Contracts Manager

Kevin has over 35 years of experience in the construction industry. He began his career as a carpentry apprentice after completing school, gradually progressing through various supervisory roles and accumulating a wealth of project experience. With a strong practical background, Kevin possesses excellent problem-solving skills and takes pleasure in cultivating relationships with project teams, ensuring favourable outcomes for all involved. Leading by example and prioritising a sense of camaraderie among project members are fundamental aspects of Kevin’s approach.

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build genuine and long-lasting client relationships.

Lewis Hepburn

Contracts Manager

Lewis has over 20 years’ experience in delivering challenging construction and fit out projects; as a result, he has won the commendation of clients and consultants who have requested his services on projects. His ability to communicate at all levels ensures he gets the very best from his team and those around him. Lewis leads from the front and his passion and drive means that even the most challenging of fast-track projects are delivered successfully.

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bring visions to life.

Luke Bradwick

Senior Pre-contracts Manager – Design & Build

After dedicating the past 8 years to working in the fit out market across Europe, Luke has now found his place within the BW Design & Build team. He brings forth a consistent commercial approach to every project, coupled with a solution-oriented mindset during the pre-contract phase. Luke conscientiously manages the client’s budget while enabling them to explore all possibilities alongside the BW design team. Always the ‘voice of reason’ in the room, Luke bridges the conceptual design phase with a keen eye for feasibility, ensuring that the commitment to achieving a Defect-Free outcome holds true from inception to completion.

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collaborate and make a change.

Will Randlesome

Design & Build Director

With over 10 years’ experience in design and build, Will specialises in pre-construction and commercials. Will will be involved from the outset of the project, from the initial briefing stage, right through to completion. Will enjoys being involved from start to finish as you get to experience the entire journey with the client team and help bring their concept to life. He loves to be faced with new challenges, especially when it results in exceeding clients’ expectations and providing fantastic value for money.

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bring ideas to life at the highest standard.

Sachin Mohanan

Design Director

Since coming to the UK in 2005, Sachin has worked with leading fit-out companies in London, starting as a graduate trainee. Over the years, Sachin’s experience has been exclusively within the fit-out industry, working on prestigious, high-value, and demanding projects, and delivering them to the highest quality standards. Sachin now heads up the design management department at BW and is keen to ensure consistency in the delivery of projects and the service BW provides from a design management perspective.

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take immense pride in every project.

Paul Kavanagh

Operations Director

Paul joined BW back in 2011 and has a vast experience of the building industry spanning over 30 years. He has a passion for delivering high-quality projects on time. Paul is a massive rugby fan, and for the last 10 years has been a rugby union coach at weekends. He is committed, passionate and competitive in everything he does.

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create award-winning workplaces.

Peter Nagle

Managing Director

Peter joined BW in 2005 as a contracts manager and quickly advanced through the ranks to become a contracts director. Before joining the BW team, Peter spent five years at Quality Building Services (part of the Bowmer & Kirkland Group), progressing from production assistant to contracts manager. He has amassed a wealth of experience, ranging from gutsy refurbishments to high-end retail fit-outs.

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offer people the care and attention their careers’ deserve.

Rachel Tabone

Head of Talent & Culture

Rachel currently holds the position of Head of Talent and Culture at BW: Workplace Experts. Rachel’s dedication lies in fostering a positive and engaging work environment that nurtures the growth and advancement of both our team members and our business. Before joining BW, Rachel served as a Talent Advisor for a renowned global construction services company, where she honed her expertise in talent management and development.

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brainstorm in-person. And pilfer office snacks.

Anthony Brown

CMO

Anthony heads up marketing, sales and business strategy, focused on extending occupier partnerships and frameworks. He also looks after the thought leadership programme of research, seminars and roundtables. Before joining BW, Anthony worked on the board of the UK’s largest Fit Out specialist where he oversaw the development of international alliances in USA and Australia. He is determined that BW is considered as one of the most forward-thinking workplace experts in the UK, promoting the delivery of world-class customer service.

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act with honesty, transparency and integrity.

Matthew Freeman

Project Director

Matthew is a Chartered professional with over 30 years of experience in the commercial office, retail refurbishment, and fit-out sector. He is highly enthusiastic, self-driven, and takes pride in building strong relationships and effectively managing risks. Matthew consistently strives to surpass expectations. He is approachable, demonstrates strong leadership skills, and works collaboratively as a team player. With excellent communication abilities, he provides robust support to his teams and thrives on the responsibility of delivering on all aspects of a project.

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work with the industry’s most amazing people.

Norman Watts

Head of Aftercare

Norman’s industry experience spans 30 years. His career commenced as a carpenter and joiner, where his passion for detail and quality was ignited. This naturally led him into project management, where he advanced through the ranks to become a senior project manager. Norman is known for challenging the status quo. With his extensive wealth of knowledge, he seamlessly transitioned into the role of Head of Aftercare. Family is central to his life, beyond this he enjoys travelling and following his love of live music and ice hockey. His weekends are usually spent supporting his local ice hockey team whilst enjoying a nice cup of tea and a KitKat.

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create real things that solve real challenges.

Chris Kerr

Project Director

Chris started his career in 1997 as carpenter and joiner with Optima and stayed there for around 9 years. He then moved to site management with a shop fitting company based in Hertfordshire, mainly working on high-end retail. Chris then moved to Wates Interiors for 5 years before joining Como for 3 years. He has been a Project Director at BW since he left Como.

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empower our teams to create transformational fit outs.

Steve Hopkins

Contracts Manager

Steve first joined BW back in 2014, bringing with him over 30 years’ experience across the UK and Australia. He’s delivered a wide mix of projects – big, small and everything in between – always with a sharp eye for detail and a real drive to get things right. Quality sits at the heart of everything Steve does, and it shows in the work he delivers.

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nurture a supportive environment for extraordinary people.

Steve Elliott

CEO

Leading the charge as our CEO, Steve is driving BW’s ongoing transformation – focused on Defect Free, strong business results, and putting innovation at the heart of everything we do. With over 30 years’ experience and a background as MD of the UK’s largest fit out company, he’s always pushed for progress and believes the industry should benchmark itself against the very best, not just its own. Just don’t leave chocolate on your desk… Steve will find it.

Get in touch

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