Introducing Richard Pearson

19 May 2021

In the next in our series, aimed at introducing you to some of our key colleagues at Space Engineering Services, we would like to introduce you to Richard Pearson, our Service & Maintenance Director.

What led you to your career?

Coming from a family with a strong background in engineering and a childhood obsession with fixing things, I joined the industry in 1986 as an apprentice refrigeration engineer.

When did you join Space Engineering Services?

After working in high-street retail engineering for 20 years, I joined the Space team and the non-stop world of supermarket retail in 2006.

What are you most proud of accomplishing?

Shaping and working with an incredibly dedicated team that has helped my progression, ultimately leading to the Board appointment (not forgetting running the London Marathon in my 50th year).

What would you do differently if you had the chance?

I’d have liked to have gained a broader experience in other industry sectors, as I believe that there is so much to learn.

What’s the biggest challenge facing you personally?

COVID aside, the old favourite of finding the right work/life balance and continuing to support my family.

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing the industry?

The way that the public shops is in a significant period of transition, that is reshaping the future of our industry.  I need to ensure that our teams are best placed to support our customers in this transition.  One-stop-shop preferences are leading to the FM sector absorbing specialist aspects of our industry.

What does a typical day look like?

There’s no such thing as a typical day, but they are usually long, working with and supporting the teams in meeting our clients’ expectations.  Always looking for ways to improve the working environments and efficiencies to ensure that we provide the best possible service to our customers.

Share with us something about yourself that you would like to improve?

The tenacious way that I approach work sometimes leads to “peaks and troughs” in my focus on my physical well-being.  I’ll never be an Olympian (as my marathon time demonstrates), but a more balanced approach to maintaining fitness levels has to be a priority.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy?

Holidays in the UK, festivals, running, cycling and walking.  Watching sports is a big passion, including the rollercoaster ride that is following Sheffield United.  You can’t beat a good boxset on Netflix!  I also love getting my tools out, as I’m an avid DIY enthusiast.