Property sector shocked by death of David Bucknall
DAVID Bucknall OBE, one of the best-known figures in the region’s property and construction sectors, has died aged 76.
It is believed he suffered a heart attack whilst out cycling in rural Warwickshire. He was training for a forthcoming Ironman triathlon.
Bucknall was a founder and former chairman of the Rider Levett Bucknall (RLB) property consultancy business which is based in Birmingham.
Ann Bentley, global director at Rider Levett Bucknall, said on behalf of the company: “It was with great sadness that we learned of David’s untimely death.
“There have been a handful of personalities within the property and construction industry that have inspired change and innovation but none as influential, pioneering and dynamic as David Bucknall.
“It was an honour and a privilege to work with him both on a professional and personal basis.
“Our thoughts are with his family at this difficult time, as well as our staff, for many of whom he remained a friend and mentor.”
David Bucknall was a leading figure in the quantity surveying profession, well known for his enthusiasm and desire to innovate and push the boundaries in everything he did.
He was renowned for his perseverance in striving for best practice, pushing conventional boundaries and encouraging collaboration across the industry to ensure that the QS profession would be at the forefront of any changes in the construction sector.
A chartered quantity surveyor, he chaired the RICS Global Construction and Quantity Surveying Board, a role that recognised his huge contribution to the global profession.
He began his career in 1961 with Bucknall Austin and held a number of roles culminating in his leadership of the global merger of Rider Hunt, Levett and Bailey and Bucknall Austin to form Rider Levett Bucknall in 2007.
He retired from the firm in 2013 but remained part of RLB, acting as patron for the company’s graduate recruitment scheme, Protégé.
It was later expanded to include Bucknall’s First Rung, a scheme targeted at NEETs (Not in Education, Employment or Training) to increase diversity in the industry and widen the opportunities available for people who found it difficult to enter the profession.
Bucknall achieved a number of accolades and held a number of prominent positions: Honorary Doctorate (HDD), University of Wolverhampton and, HDD Birmingham City University, for Contribution to Excellence and Quality in the Property and Construction sectors; Board member of Midlands ‘Constructing Excellence’; Trustee of Construction Youth Trust; Trustee of Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust Board.
He also founded and chaired the Birmingham Community Foundation charity (BCF) which distributed grants to local community grass roots projects.
One particular career highlight was Nechells Baths. Bucknall acquired and restored the derelict Victorian Bath House to its former glory for community use.
Bucknall was a fitness fanatic, having taken part in many marathons and cycling events. He played rugby for Moseley into his forties.
