Property Focus: The Interview – Chris Saxton
IN our series of interviews with top professionals from across the property sector, TheBusinessDesk catches up with Chris Saxton chief executive of fit-out and maintenance company Morris & Spottiswood.
What are your views of the current state of the commercial property and property development markets?
Steve Redgrave would do well in our industry at the moment. It’s a bit like rowing against the current and then being brought to a stand still by a series of sluice gates (the banks!). For me you need to maintain your course, be patient and select the best team mates. Most importantly adapt your style to deal with the changing environment. The appetite for development is still there but we need the banks to release the cash in a controlled way. I feel the flow is returning. Hopefully this will build confidence.
What key challenges and pieces of legislation do you think will most affect your sector over the coming months?
The CRC Energy Efficiency Scheme will no doubt feature high up on the agenda for both developers and end users alike. Working in the refurbishment, fit out and maintenance sectors, it is crucial for us that we find innovative ways of supporting our clients. DDA Requirements are also still featuring highly.
Why do you think the North West is a good place to work?
Outside London, the North West is probably the most vibrant marketplace. I also think that the character of the people here adds hugely to the attraction of the job.
What is your favourite building in the North West and why?
I probably don’t really have one. But I have to admit I’m continually impressed by Beetham Tower every time I go past it.
If you could improve anything in the region, what would it be?
I’d tidy up the peripheral edges to the major towns. It’s usually the first thing you see when coming into a place and first impressions always count.
What was your first job and how did you enter your current line of work?
My first job was actually a ‘pot collector’ in my local pub before progressing to the heady heights of senior barman! I actually trained as a quantity surveyor when I came into the industry before eventually moving into general management. I have held senior leadership positions in Jarvis, Interior (now ISG), Morgan Sindall, Rok and now Morris & Spottiswood.
What do you most enjoy about your job?
Working with the people, both within the business and in the wider industry. The characters are so diverse and entertaining.
What barriers have you faced during your career and how have you overcome them?
Probably the only barrier I have experienced was an age barrier when I was a senior surveyor working with older surveyors and site managers, who had seen me grow up through the ranks. I was told at the time that I’d have to leave the company to be taken seriously and not just seen as the ‘young lad’. I managed to work my way through however and eventually earn their respect.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?
‘Today is the first day of the rest of your life’. Make the most of each day as if it was your last.
And the worst?
I had a really exciting period working with the Snape business between 1997 and 2000. I was told by someone that after that, I’d never enjoy that level of experience again. It was a once in a life time feeling. Well how wrong he was, as I’m really lucky to be working with Morris & Spottiswood and enjoying my working life again. If I’d have believed him, I would have left the industry.
