About David

I bring over two decades of experience in Property and Estates recruitment, with a strong track record of success and deep sector knowledge. For the past nine years at MRG, I’ve specialised in supporting the Higher Education sector across the North of England and Scotland.

I’ve led numerous high-impact campaigns for some of the UK’s most respected universities, focusing on the Estates and Facilities function. I recruit across a wide range of disciplines, including engineering, capital development, maintenance, energy, sustainability, campus services, residential operations, and facilities management.

I take a consultative approach to recruitment, aiming to deliver outstanding outcomes for both clients and candidates through tailored, strategic solutions.

Life isn't about waiting for the storm to pass, it's about learning to dance in the rain.

Q&A With David

What makes MRG 'Different by Design'?

At MRG, we’re not just recruiters—we’re specialists. What sets us apart is our deep sector focus, consultative approach, and commitment to long-term partnerships. We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, we tailor every campaign to the unique culture, challenges, and ambitions of our clients.
Our teams are built around industry expertise, not generalist models. Whether it’s Estates and Facilities in Higher Education or leadership roles in the public and private sectors, we bring insight, not just CVs. We invest time in understanding people, not just positions—ensuring every placement is a strategic fit.
From bespoke search strategies to candidate care that goes beyond the offer stage, MRG is designed to deliver more than recruitment. We deliver impact.

How has your career at MRG progressed?

Having worked within property recruitment for over two decades, MRG has allowed me to specialise within a sector that I love working in. They have given me the opportunity to work with some very interesting characters and leading institutes on roles that make significant difference to the next generation. They have given me the guidance, support and structure to successfully deliver campaign after campaign for my university clients.

What's the emerging trend in your sector specialism and how are you responding to this?

Universities are under growing pressure to reduce their environmental impact and lead on social responsibility. This includes sustainable campus development, energy efficiency, and inclusive leadership.
We are aligning recruitment strategies with these goals by identifying candidates who bring expertise in energy management, sustainability strategy, and green infrastructure. We help institutions build teams that can deliver on net-zero targets and lead cultural change.
The shift toward digital pedagogy, AI integration, and smart campus technologies is accelerating. Estates teams are now expected to support hybrid learning environments and data-driven facilities management.
We are sourcing talent with experience in digital estates, smart building systems, and tech-enabled facilities management, ensuring universities stay ahead in delivering modern, flexible learning spaces.

How do you add value to your customers?

Working with leading universities across the North of England and Scotland, I understand the unique pressures and ambitions of estates and facilities teams in the HE sector.
My value lies in connecting the right people with the right environments. I don’t just fill roles—I build teams that drive innovation in engineering, capital development, sustainability, and campus services. For clients, I offer strategic recruitment campaigns tailored to institutional culture and long-term goals. For candidates, I provide honest guidance, exclusive opportunities, and support that extends well beyond placement.

Track record

  • Executive Director of Estates, University of Chester
  • Associate Director: Engineering and Maintenance, University of Sheffield
  • Head of Compliance and Maintenance, University of Manchester
  • Interim Deputy Director – Infrastructure, Hard Services, University of Leeds
  • Deputy Director of Estates, University of Lincoln
  • Head of Community Safety and Campus Security, University of Leeds
  • Head of Sustainability, Lancaster University
  • Head of Environmental Sustainability and Energy Services, University of Liverpool
  • Assistant Director of Estates and Facilities, University of Huddersfield
  • Head of Facilities, University of Lancashire

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