Paul Nixon, a leading figure in the North East property landscape, has announced his forthcoming retirement from Henry Riley, a national multi-disciplinary construction practice where he's worked for more than 31 years. Today he highlights the journey he's enjoyed, a life-threatening incident and what the future holds.
Why have you decided to announce your departure now?
It seemed like the perfect time. Henry Riley celebrated its 30th anniversary in the region last year, coinciding with my own length of time with the firm, which I joined in 1988. The Newcastle office has never been in a stronger position – with an impressive client list across many different sectors. I also have a great right-hand man in Joel Neasham, who will step into the role when I leave. And at 57, I’d like to spend more time doing the other things I love.
How have things changed during the last three decades?
When we set up in 1988 Newcastle United were in the old Second Division and places like the Quayside and the Ouseburn were complete no-go areas. Since then, of course, there’s been fantastic regeneration along the Quayside, north and south of the river. More recently, the city centre has exploded with new build student accommodation and a more user friendly’ and leisure focussed approach to the city centre. There has been a phenomenal transformation across the whole Newcastle city area.
How has Henry Riley changed?
Originally, much of our work was for major national retail clients and for many years we were known as Sainsbury’s QS of choice’. That gradually changed and in recent years we’ve seen significant changes in the diversity of sectors we work in and local projects we’re involved with. We’re a growing practice with residential, commercial, infrastructure, leisure and health clients along with our steady retail work.
What have been your most memorable moments?
Becoming a partner in 2002 and then an equity partner in 2007 were special moments. But I’m particularly proud of helping steer the firm’s diversification strategy. Less than 10 years ago, one client represented around 60pc of our business while today that has dropped below 5pc and we’ve still grown. I’m also pleased to have been one of the founding members of the relaunched North East branch of Interact, a professional property forum, where members network and secure new business.
Any lessons learned?
Always be willing to go that extra mile for a good client; it will pay dividends in the long run. Also, surround yourself with the best possible staff and fellow consultants. Any other career-defining moments? It was more a life-defining moment that’s had an impact on my career. It happened one morning in February 2015 when I was involved in a bad road traffic incident when cycling along Stamfordham Road, near the Jingling Gate Pub. Following the crash, I was rushed to hospital with life threatening injuries. I had a shattered pelvis, a severed artery and bad internal damage. My wife was warned to call our children to hospital because the medical staff weren’t certain I’d survive the emergency surgery. I did but it was a long, slow recovery which involved almost a month in hospital and five months at home before I could start a gradual return to work. Something like that gives you a different perspective on life.
What next? How do you intend to relax?
I’m not leaving Henry Riley until next March, allowing me to finish some projects and hand over others. The office is in a strong position and I have a fantastic successor in Joel Neasham. I will remain as a consultant next year but will find more time to spend with my wife Maura and family and devote to my other passions – cycling, travelling and the unpleasantness of the fortnightly trip to St James’ Park.
More details: www.henryriley.com
