Global architecture and engineering design practice BDP has appointed Bristol-based Nick Fairham as its next chief executive, a role that will involve him leading more than 1,000 staff working in studios around the world.
Nick, pictured right, who is currently responsible for BDP’s bases in Bristol, Cardiff, the Middle East and North Africa, has 25 years’ national and international experience, particularly in the field of healthcare design, focusing mainly on large scale acute hospitals.
He has led design teams on major commissions in the UK and internationally, including Bristol’s award-winning Southmead Hospital, the Grange University Hospital near Newport, and Musgrove Park Hospital in Taunton.
His team also recently worked on the Nightingale facilities in Cardiff and Bristol.
He will take up his new role on July 1, replacing current chief executive John McManus, pictured below, who has been in the post since January 2014 and will retire later this year.
Under his leadership, BDP has become a major international design practice, doubling its annual turnover from £67.7m in 2013 – when he elected to the board – to £131.3m last year.
He oversaw its 2016 acquisition by Nippon Koei, Japan’s leading engineering practice, and was instrumental in establishing a strong base of 200 staff in North America.
Nick, who joined BDP in 2006, said: “As BDP prepares to celebrate its 60th anniversary, it is a truly exciting time to take up the role of chief executive.
“Our practice was founded on the principles of achieving more through collaboration and innovation. 
“This ethos has created a culture of creative thinking where the ideas and insights from over 1000 talented people enable us to uniquely respond to the ever-changing needs of our clients and the communities we serve.
“Our plans will bring our unique blend of design excellence, multi-disciplinary skills and sector expertise closer to our clients through our global network of studios.
“We will continue to focus on the values of human-centric design and through the use of research and technology will be evidence-based in our sustainable, award-winning design approach.”
John McManus added: “After 36 years at BDP, I have decided to retire from the practice at the end of this year.
“I am delighted to pass the baton to Nick. I wish him every success and I am confident that he has the vision, energy and passion to take the practice to new levels of achievement in an increasingly global marketplace.
“I will work alongside Nick over the coming months to ensure that we achieve a smooth and effective transition.”
Founded in 1961, BDP employs architects, engineers, designers and urbanists across its studios in the UK, Ireland, Netherlands, UAE, India, China, Singapore and Canada.
It has a strong track record in all major sectors including health, education, workplace, retail, urbanism, heritage, housing, transport and leisure and has won more than 1,000 awards for design quality.
