Monday Meets Greg Deverell - Technical Services Project Manager

In this week's #MondayMeets, we spotlight Greg Deverell , our Technical Services Project Manager who expertly manages numerous mechanical and electrical (M&E) projects within our portfolio. A highlight of today's feature is Greg's journey into the property industry, which began with an #EngineeringApprenticeship in the Royal Navy , equipping him with extensive knowledge and a versatile approach to his role.?

How did you get into the property industry?

I spent seven years in the Royal Navy where I completed an Engineering Apprenticeship, and this gave me the skills to gateway into the Building Services Environment (BSE) and apply for a critical shift engineering role. From there, I progressed into other roles in the BSE environment, and gained further qualifications in Building Services Engineering which have assisted me on my journey to where I am now.

What’s keeping you busy at the moment?

I’m juggling a range of projects, from a domestic water tank and its associated pumps and pipework replacement, to upgrading Building Management Systems (or BMS, which are the brains of the building that control all aspects of the HVAC system, and ensure the building is operating efficiently and effectively for our occupiers). With all my projects, it’s my responsibility to ensure everything is prepared so the contractors can start on time.

What does a typical day look like for you?

There aren’t many typical days! I am based at our HQ at 25 Savile Row however spend a lot of time at all the buildings across the managed portfolio. Typically, I am meeting the Building Managers, Portfolio Managers and on-site engineering teams to understand the building requirements and potential issues, and then create a plan to improve how the buildings work. Following this I will meet with consultants and contractors to make the improvements a reality.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

It’s very versatile, and every project is different. This enables me to travel and spend time at all the different buildings, which range in age, size and the way they operate. Each project requires a different way of working, as all their systems integrate differently. The modern buildings may simply need some fine tuning to ensure they are working efficiently, whereas older properties might need full system changes and complete modernisation to bring them up to current standards.

What are some of the key challenges you face?

All projects in the managed portfolio require the M&E systems to remain in full operation for our occupiers while works take place. This means we must be resourceful in our approach to each one, and sometimes creative in making temporary systems that can handle the M&E loads.

What has been your highlight at Derwent London so far?

My first role at Derwent London was Technical Services Manager, and I was then presented with a significant career milestone – a promotion that not only recognised my contributions but also opened the door to a new and exciting opportunity within the Projects Team. The prospect of working in the Projects Team not only allowed me to apply my technical expertise but also fuelled my passion for orchestrating and guiding projects from conception to completion. It enabled me to collaborate with cross-functional teams, harnessing collective efforts to achieve project goals and contribute to the overall success of the organisation.

What advice would you give to someone looking to get into what you do?

Once you are qualified, find a good mentor. I have been lucky to work with some great people over the years who have helped me grow. They taught me that all the skills I already had could be transferred into the building services industry, as well as other invaluable skills including commercial awareness and health and safety.

What do you like to do in your spare time?

Spending quality time with my partner and young family, taking the kids to their various sports and clubs and seeing friends. I’m also making an active effort to get back on the golf course this year!