Property industry mourns death of former DTZ man

WELL-known surveyor Rod Gough has died at the age of 64.

Mr Gough was a familiar figure around Birmingham and a mentor to many surveyors during his career which spanned more than 40 years, most recently as a director at DTZ.

He began work at Bottley and Co where he qualified and became an associate partner. In 1976 he joined Chesshire Gibson and shortly afterwards became an associate partner. In 1978 he became a partner with a focus on industrial agency and valuation. 

In 1988 Chesshires merged Debenham Tewson and Chinnocks, with Rod now becoming a director. Later the company merged to become DTZ, with Rod still running his team. 

David Middleton at Savills remembers him fondly and says: “Rod was my first ‘real boss’ and he not only taught me to enjoy work but also to appreciate the finer things in life. His love of wine and food took us on many diversions during our inspections. Ones where I inevitably drove back to the office!

“He was a most generous and caring person and I will miss him.”

Philippa Pickavance , head of agency at Drivers Jonas Deloitte (DJD), added: “Rod was my mentor in my early working years. He was a loyal and fair boss but also made working in his team fun, he became a true friend.” 

Mr Gough is survived by wife Lynne and step children Owen and Sian.

Donations in aid of St Richard’s Hospice or the Marie Curie Foundation may be sent c/o Powell and Family, 15 North Street, Droitwich, WR9 8JB.