Lee Bishop, director at White Knight Maintenance
Can you tell us about White Knight Maintenance and your role?
White Knight Maintenance is a building and property services company dedicated to delivering high-quality maintenance, refurbishment, and construction solutions. Our focus is on reliability, craftsmanship and building long-term relationships with clients. My role, as Director, is to provide leadership and direction, making sure every project we deliver reflects our commitment to excellence. I am closely involved in project oversight and client engagement but, equally, I focus on supporting our team to grow their skills and thrive within the business.
When was the company established?
The company was established in 2011.
What projects is the company currently undertaking?
White Knight Maintenance is currently undertaking a diverse portfolio of work, including residential refurbishments, commercial property upgrades, fire stopping, social housing maintenance and retail fit outs.
Which areas of the UK does your company operate within?
We operate primarily across the North East of England but also take on projects further afield when specialist expertise is required.
What are the biggest challenges and opportunities facing the construction sector?
Like many in the construction sector, White Knight Maintenance recognises the challenges of rising material costs, supply chain issues and the ongoing skills shortage. However, I believe there are strong opportunities for forward-looking businesses. Sustainability, energy-efficient retrofitting and digital innovation in construction are shaping the future of our industry. By embracing change, we can turn challenges into opportunities.
What can be done to bridge the skills gap in the construction sector?
As part of its long-term commitment to the sector, White Knight Maintenance actively supports apprenticeships and training partnerships with local colleges, encouraging young people to view construction as a dynamic and rewarding career. Also, as a business strategy, we have been working on in house training programmes to up skill and monitor performance to our own standards.
You are a member of Northern Counties Builders Federation. How does being aligned to a sector body support White Knight Maintenance?
Being part of the NCBF ensures we stay aligned with best practice, have a voice in the industry and continue to demonstrate credibility and professionalism to our clients.
What’s your proudest business achievement?
My proudest achievements include building the company from scratch and supporting 12 apprentices through to full qualification, helping to nurture the next generation of skilled workers. In recognition of its dedication to developing young people, the company also won the Investors in Young People Award twice, through its work with the Phoenix Detached Youth Project.