We are pleased to announce a series of senior leadership appointments that will guide the company through its next phase of growth, following its first successful year as an Employee-Owned Trust (EOT). 

Effective 1st December 2025, Managing Director Nick Till will transition to the role of Executive Chairman, with David Cocksedge appointed as Managing Director and Mike Evans. continuing in his role as Director.

The operational board will also be expanded with the following key appointments:

• Darren Harbor – Director of Commissioning Management & Verification
• Jacqueline Taylor – Business Operations and People Director
• Keith Broadfoote-Brown – Finance Director

This strengthened leadership team brings together extensive experience and continuity, positioning the company for long-term, sustainable growth.

Building on a Strong Heritage 

Founded in 1987, Banyards has evolved into a nationally recognised specialist in building services M&E design, commissioning management, verification & validation. The company has established a strong presence across the Commercial, Residential, Education, Healthcare, Hospitality, Defence and Laboratory sectors, built on a long-standing reputation for technical excellence, independence and integrity.

As a founding director, Nick Till has been instrumental in shaping the business’s development, technical capabilities and values-driven culture. The company’s transition to Employee Ownership in 2024 reflected its commitment to securing long-term independence and ensuring its people remain at the heart of its decision-making.

A Leadership Team for the Future 

Nick Till – Executive Chairman
Nick will lead the strategic direction of the business, focusing on long-term oversight and key client relationships.

David Cocksedge – Managing Director
David will oversee day-to-day operations across the Design, Commissioning Management, Verification & Validation teams, ensuring delivery of high-quality technical services and continued innovation.

Darren Harbor – Director of Commissioning Management & Verification
Darren will strengthen Banyards’ technical capabilities and support continued growth in commissioning management and verification services across major sectors.

Jacqueline Taylor – Business Operations and People Director
Jacqueline will lead the company’s operational and people strategy, including learning and development, wellbeing and Equality, Diversity & Inclusion.

Keith Broadfoote-Brown – Finance Director
Keith will oversee financial governance, long-term planning and sustainable investment as the business moves into 2025/26 and beyond.

Clear Priorities for Sustainable Growth 

Banyards’ renewed leadership structure supports its long-term strategic objectives:

• To be the award-winning, employee-owned consultancy of choice
• To deliver buildings that perform as intended
• To develop and invest in its people while attracting new talent
• To drive growth across key sectors
• To enhance its design, commissioning and verification capabilities

The operational board will play a central role in delivering these priorities and ensuring the company remains agile and well-positioned for the future.

Leadership Reflections 

Nick Till, Executive Chairman, commented:

“Banyards has always been at its best when we work together. Becoming an EOT has strengthened our culture more than we ever imagined, and this new operational board will ensure we continue to grow with the same integrity, passion and focus that have defined the business since 1987.”

David Cocksedge, Managing Director, added:

“Having been with Banyards for over 37 years, I am proud to step into this role and continue working with our directors, senior management team and wider colleagues as we lead the business into its next chapter. Employee ownership has brought an enhanced level of collaboration and engagement, and I look forward to building on this momentum. Congratulations to all on their well-deserved appointments—together we will deliver exceptional results in the years ahead.”