This month we had the pleasure of talking to Dr Shaun Lundy, Technical Director at 4site Consulting.
We spoke to Shaun about his role at 4site, joining the ARMA Advisory Committee, his proudest achievement and more, scroll down to read…
You joined 4site Consulting as a Director at the end of 2017, what were you doing before that?
I’ve actually worked with 4site part-time in an advisory capacity for over 7 years. Before joining full-time I was Head of the Built Environment Department at the University of Greenwich where we ran RICS, CIOB, CABE and IOSH accredited degree programmes in the UK and around the world.
What does your role at 4site cover?
I lead the operational and technical delivery team in providing services on general health and safety, fire, asbestos and legionella. I’m fortunate to have the hugely capable Sara Walsh as my Operations Manager and Bob Dow as Technical Manager to keep things running smoothly. I also work closely with Gregg Masters our Commercial Director in developing new services and products in response to client feedback and industry developments.
What do you feel makes 4site Consulting different in the market place?
4site has been operating in the property management sector since 2006 so our services and staff are set up to meet the demands of this sector specifically. As part of our service we provide a management system at no additional cost to help block managers manage their portfolios more efficiently including the recommendations we make in our risk assessments.
We see that you have now been appointed as an Advisory Committee Member by ARMA, what does mean for you?
It’s a great opportunity for me to assist ARMA and it’s members by working with other members of the committee in developing its guidance and responding to changes in standards and legislation in a timely and pragmatic manner.
I’ve also recently been asked to sit on a health, Safety and Fire Working Group for IRPM in a similar role but focusing on professional development and education of IRPM members.
Who do you admire most in the industry?
Even with the challenges property managers face in this environment, I admire their willingness to embrace new ideas when it comes to health and safety, and work in partnership with us to improve blocks safety for residents.
What is the most important lesson you’ve learned in your career?
Never stop learning, be a sponge not a rock by which I mean be open to new ideas and don’t get set in your ways, stagnation is the enemy. Also listen carefully, I’m a big advocate of learning from others and you can only do that if you listen.
What is your proudest achievement?
Becoming a husband and father to 3 wonderful children will always be by far my proudest achievement. A close second is maintaining the stamina and determination to achieve a Doctorate. As the first in my family to go to University it was a very personal endeavour for me and has led me to continue to support other with their aspirations to achieve a degree through my appointment as visiting scholar at the University of Greenwich.
What drives you crazy about the property management sector?
I think there are a number of challenges faced by the industry. Recent events have highlighted the need for clear legislation and guidance when it comes to fire safety. I also find it difficult when the approach from fire enforcement authorities varies across the country so it would be good to see a more consistent approach to enforcement and clearer standards to help block managers in achieving high levels of health and safety in the blocks they manage.
What do you do away from the office?
Well my wife and 3 children keep me busy. When the weather is good I like to explore the great outdoors, there’s nothing better than sitting round a fire in the evening with good company and cold beer. I also like skiing and try to ski every year in the Alps as long as my knees hold out.
