David Johnson Takes Charge as Gleeds' Group COO
Portfolio - People | Feb 12, 2025 | FM Business Daily
David Johnson, a veteran at Gleeds, has been appointed as the new Chief Operating Officer (COO) effective March 1, 2025. With over 40 years of experience at Gleeds, Johnson transitions from his role as Managing Director for Gleeds Europe in Madrid, back to the UK. In his new capacity, he will drive optimized operations and cross-functional collaboration globally. Concurrently, Salar Farzad, the former COO, will continue as Chief Financial Officer while taking on the additional role of Chief Administrative Officer, focusing on the financial strategy and administrative oversight. Chairman Richard Steer commended both appointments for their contributions towards Gleeds’ recent growth, reflecting nearly 15% revenue growth and record profitability in 2024. These changes align with the company’s shift to their new Fitzrovia headquarters at 60 Berners Street.
Sectors
- Professional Services
- Construction and Real Estate
Geography
- United Kingdom – The article focuses on Gleeds' UK headquarters transition and new leadership appointment based in the UK.
- Spain – David Johnson, the newly appointed COO, previously held a managing director position in Gleeds Europe, based in Madrid, Spain.
Industry
- Professional Services – Gleeds operates in the professional services sector, providing cost consultancy and project management services on a global scale.
- Construction and Real Estate – The article involves Gleeds, a multidisciplinary company known for its involvement in the construction and real estate industries.
Financials
- 15% – Cumulative average revenue growth rate achieved by Gleeds over the past four years.
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gleeds | Target Company | Company | Gleeds is a global property and construction consultancy known for its project management and cost consultancy services. |
| David Johnson | Incoming Chief Operating Officer | Person | A long-serving Gleeds executive who will assume the role of COO. |
| Salar Farzad | Chief Financial Officer and Chief Administrative Officer | Person | Retained as CFO and promoted to CAO, overseeing financial strategy and administrative functions. |
| Richard Steer | Chair of Gleeds Worldwide | Person | Chair of Gleeds Worldwide, spoke on the leadership transition. |