Few people have seen Ridge change quite like Adrian. Fewer still have played such a significant part in shaping the business today. He joined in 1986, enticed by a free train fare to Oxford, for what was meant to be a year out from university. Four decades on, he has never stood still.

Starting out as a quantity surveyor, Adrian quickly discovered that Ridge gave people responsibility from day one. From the outset, he was meeting clients, visiting sites and leading projects. That culture of trust became a defining feature of his career. He describes his progression as a series of building blocks: from team leader to discipline lead, equity partner to executive group member and now senior partner. Each step has been a privilege for him that has brought more responsibility and a greater chance to contribute alongside people he deeply respects.

Adrian is motivated less by personal recognition than by the continued success of Ridge. He is passionate about building an organisation that expects a lot from people while giving them the freedom to thrive. Quick to credit others for many of the ideas that have influenced the business, Adrian has always been open to change and new thinking. Above all, he hopes people look back on their careers at Ridge in much the same way he does: having worked hard, built lasting relationships and thoroughly enjoyed the journey.

Outside work, Adrian enjoys travelling, following sport and meeting up with lifelong friends from his North East upbringing. These connections keep him close to his roots, and to the grounded, loyal outlook that has stayed with him throughout his career.