Celebrating 8 Years with Richard Kingston

Richard Kingston

Senior Development Executive at Lee Wakemans

Work Anniversary: 9th May

Years at the company: 8

Senior Development Executive | Anniversary: 9th May

As Richard marks his eighth anniversary with Lee Wakemans, we sat down with him to reflect on his journey, challenges, and the values he brings to our team. Richard's wealth of international experience and legal expertise continues to shape our organisation in meaningful ways. Below, we've paired his reflections with our thoughts on why his contributions truly matter.

Career Journey & Role

1. What first attracted you to Lee Wakemans and how did you come to join the team?

'I had just returned from running my own business in Dubai and previously being Group MD for Sweett Group PLC, responsible for Midde East, Africa and India and had thought about retiring, but met with Paul and Brendan and really loved the way that they thought about the business and the future and wanted to be part of the journey.'

Lee Wakemans - Richard's decision to join us was a significant moment -- his background brought a global perspective and commercial rigour to our leadership. His alignment with our long-term vision has helped us grow in a considered and strategic way.

2. Can you describe your role and how it has evolved over the past eight years?

'I came to Lee Wakemans to work on the GB+I projects (https://www.gbi-uk.com/), but over the years have drifted more towards working on the bids, frameworks and compliance side of the business and supporting the project teams with the drafting of Appointment Letters and Contracts as well as legal advice on the administration of the contracts. GB+I helps businesses grow across international borders through financial support and strategic advice whereas Lee Wakemans focuses on Project Management and Cost Management.'

Lee Wakemans - This flexibility illustrates one of our core values -- adaptability. Richard's willingness to evolve with the needs of the business has been essential, ensuring we stay legally robust, commercially agile, and framework ready.

3. What has been your proudest achievement during your time at Lee Wakemans?

'There have been many, but getting Lee Wakemans on the Building for Wales 2 Framework for both Cost Managers and Project Managers was tough but so worthwhile. The NHS Building for Wales Frameworks are the NHS Wales' construction procurement and delivery frameworks for major capital projects. The frameworks are based on the fundamental principles of collaborative working, integrated supply chains and continual improvement.'

Lee Wakemans - Frameworks are critical for our continued success. Richard's work here reflects the high standards we set and his ability to navigate complex procurement processes. This achievement has opened long-term opportunities and enhanced our credibility across Wales.

4. What's the most valuable lesson you've learned since joining the company?

'"No man / woman is an island", that we achieve more by working together encompassing our strengths and weaknesses, as well as, there is something new to learn everyday and only by keeping an open mind and embracing them and change that we can succeed in this ever-changing world.

The support of the company and colleagues when fighting cancer two years, together we can fight and win anything.'

Lee Wakemans - This reflects the collaborative spirit we nurture within our teams. Richard's mindset reinforces our belief in continuous learning, mutual support, and personal resilience -- qualities we hold in the highest regard.

Project Highlights

5. Can you name a project that stands out as particularly memorable or rewarding?

'I have really enjoyed the work with GB+I, with visits to Guinea, Morocco and Iraq, they were all very intense and politically difficult. To work through the complexities of foreign government policies and procedures is somewhat challenging.'

Lee Wakemans - International work requires sharp negotiation, cultural sensitivity, and patience. Richard's diplomacy and perseverance in such settings reflects the level of sophistication and trust our clients expect.

6. Were there any especially challenging moments on a project, and how did you overcome them?

'When we started to look at delivering the hospital projects in Guinea, it was difficult to get political traction. After stalking a few politicians and ambassadorial staff, I managed to develop a relationship with the business consul, who by good fortune was appointed Ambassador and he has been a fantastic ally in sorting out meetings, approving visas in minutes and generally lobbying for the project.

The sorting out of the appointments, tracker, documents and templates has been, and continues to be challenge, as it gets tougher each tear to comply with the ever-changing legislation and to be able to keep up with the bigger consultancies who have dedicated teams working these aspects of their business.'

Lee Wakemans - This story epitomises tenacity -- building high-level networks to create real project momentum. It's this type of initiative that sets Richard apart and underpins the strategic thinking we bring to all our work.

8. What types of projects do you most enjoy working on, and why?

'I love working on complex and challenging projects / opportunities. The tougher the challenge, the more I want to complete it. I especially enjoy the drafting of complex contracts, where a multitude of different topics have to be drawn in.'

Lee Wakemans - We are fortunate to have many people who excel at turning complexity into clarity in the company. Richard's skills in contract law and risk navigation underpin many of our project successes and help protect both our clients and our business.

9. How have you seen the project management landscape change since you started?

'Yes, when I started work, it was all about face-to-face communication, it is now much more an anonymous electronic world where face to face meetings are reducing and no one has time to think about what they are doing.'

Lee Wakemans - While technology is important, we agree that thoughtful communication remains vital. Richard helps maintain our balance -- embracing digital, while advocating for the considered, human approach our clients value.

10. If you could give one piece of advice to someone just starting out in project management, what would it be?

"Wait for good weather", I started my career as a land surveyor and found an old book on the subject in my Dad's library and it was inscribed inside. We can all learn so much from the past and despite what we think, construction is basically the same as it always was. Lord Hanson used to remark, 'Why can't I buy a building like a Rolls Royce, why do I need agreements and warranties from all concerned, why doesn't one company take responsibility for it all. When something goes wrong with the car wheel, I don't have to deal with wheel and tyre manufacturers and designers as well as the assembler, all of whom blame each other'.

Lee Wakemans - An excellent reminder that long-term thinking and solid foundations lead to durable outcomes. Richard's advice underscores the importance of patience and perspective in an often fast-paced industry.

Personal Touch

11. What's one fun fact about you that your colleagues might not know?

I love to collect and play boardgames, I like the tough survival / science fiction type games, the harder the better.

12. What's your most memorable moment at a Lee Wakemans team social or company event?

I have always enjoyed the "Better Breaktimes", where we get to engage with a local community group / school and do some physical work. Lee Wakemans - ''These events are a cornerstone of our CSR values''

13. How do you unwind outside of work? Any hobbies or hidden talents?

I really enjoy growing vegetables and cooking. I do have to fight Mariya, my wife as being a Russian woman, she believes that cooking is her domain. I do get to cook on Sundays and public holidays though! I also enjoy building things and DIY. I just built a garden room and rebuilt an old derelict greenhouse. I also enjoy board games and my favourites are Zombicide, Nemesis and Terraforming Mars. Board games with the family over the weekend and holidays is much more sociable than computer games, but the competition can be fierce, especially getting to 'kill' Mum.

What Richard's colleagues say about him

"Richard is a fantastic colleague with a wealth of stories and experiences from working with companies around the world. He's always supportive, incredibly helpful, and never short of something interesting to share. His positivity and insights never fail to brighten my day!" - Charlotte Evans (Lee Wakemans Business Development Executive)