James Trethewey

Experienced Estates and Facilities Manager with over 19 years of experience across estates management, facilities operations, construction, maintenance, and project delivery. Proven track record of leading large multidisciplinary teams, managing complex estates portfolios, and delivering high-value capital projects while maintaining the highest standards of health, safety, compliance, and operational excellence. Holds SMSTS, IOSH, First Aid and CSCS certifications, with extensive expertise in contractor management, budget control, asset maintenance, and strategic estates planning.

Recognised for developing high-performing teams, driving continuous improvement initiatives, and building strong stakeholder relationships across diverse operational environments.

Facilities Manager - Ascot Racecourse

(2025-04)

Responsible for the overall management of facilities, building fabric, infrastructure, and mechanical and electrical services across one of the UK's most prestigious sporting and events venues. Lead a multidisciplinary team of over 20 personnel covering maintenance, grounds, infrastructure, projects, decorating, signage, and M&E functions.

• Restructured the Facilities Team to improve operational efficiency, accountability, and service delivery.
• Developed and implemented new Planned Preventative Maintenance (PPM) and CAPEX programmes to improve asset reliability and lifecycle management.
• Managed departmental budgets, ensuring effective resource allocation and cost control.
• Oversaw contractor performance, compliance, procurement, and project delivery.
• Chaired operational and facilities meetings, including race day and major event planning sessions.
• Enhanced team performance through targeted training, development, and performance management initiatives.
• Maintained exceptional standards of health, safety, compliance, and estate presentation.
• Built strong working relationships across departments to improve collaboration and operational effectiveness.
• Successfully created a highly engaged and motivated team culture, significantly improving employee engagement, operational standards, and service delivery across the estate.

Head of Estates and Facilities - Ladywell Convent

(2024-01 - 2024-12)

Managed a diverse 180-acre estate comprising a hotel, care home, chapel, museum, residential accommodation, staff housing, industrial kitchens, office facilities, and mission houses nationwide.

• Led all estate operations, maintenance services, projects, fleet management, health and safety, and fire safety compliance.
• Managed estates teams, ensuring delivery against operational targets and KPIs.
• Produced comprehensive reports for Directors covering project progress, operational performance, and key metrics.
• Improved operational processes and policies to enhance efficiency and service delivery.
• Recruited, trained, and developed new estates personnel.
• Controlled budgets and resources to ensure financial efficiency.
• Maintained high standards across multiple sites and complex facilities portfolios.

Estates Manager - Palace Green Office

(2023-01 - 2023-12)

Managed five residential and corporate properties across a large geographical area for a high-profile private client.

• Oversaw refurbishment, restoration, and upgrade projects, including listed buildings.
• Managed contractors and maintenance teams across multiple sites.
• Worked closely with security and fleet management teams to ensure seamless operations.
• Coordinated travel, scheduling, and estate logistics.
• Conducted regular health and safety inspections and compliance audits.
• Led tendering exercises and contract negotiations to improve service delivery and value.

Foreman - Dracaena Ltd

(2021-01 - 2023-12)

Managed operational delivery teams responsible for construction and civil engineering projects throughout the South East.

• Recruited and developed a skilled workforce, significantly reducing project backlogs.
• Successfully delivered a £100,000 attenuation tank project on time and within budget.
• Maintained excellent health and safety standards across all sites.
• Collaborated with senior leadership to improve operational efficiency and project delivery.

Estates Site Manager - Frazer-Nash Consultancy

(2013-01 - 2021-12)

Managed facilities and estate operations across the organisation's corporate headquarters and private residential properties.

• Delivered projects valued in excess of £800,000.
• Reduced operational costs by upskilling internal teams and reducing contractor dependency.
• Coordinated major extension and refurbishment projects, including specialist facilities.
• Conducted regular risk assessments and maintained full health and safety compliance.
• Managed maintenance operations and multiple specialist contractors.

Owner / Builder - TTH Construction

(2020-01)

Self-employed construction professional specialising in extensions, renovations, new-build projects, and property refurbishments.

• Successfully delivered residential building projects from inception to completion.
• Managed small project teams and subcontractors.
• Completed specialist landscaping, paving, roofing, bricklaying, and carpentry works.
• Maintained consistently high standards of workmanship and client satisfaction.

Builder - G D Marshall & Sons

(2012-01 - 2013-12)

• Promoted to Head Builder within the first year.
• Led projects involving bricklaying, carpentry, hard landscaping, and general construction.
• Successfully completed the construction of a solar charging station.
• Delivered high-quality landscaping projects including patios, fencing, and turfing.

Owner / Builder - Trethewey Groundworks & Buildings

(2009-01 - 2011-12)

Self-employed builder delivering a broad range of groundworks and construction projects.

• Managed all aspects of project delivery, including client liaison and site management.
• Delivered landscaping, roofing, carpentry, bricklaying, and refurbishment projects.
• Maintained excellent safety, quality, and customer service standards.

General Builder / Gang Lead - A & L Chapman Ltd

(2004-01 - 2009-12)

Progressed through multiple promotions while gaining extensive experience in groundworks and civil engineering.

• Operated heavy plant including excavators, dumpers, and JCB machinery.
• Specialised in deep drainage, reinforced concrete works, foundations, and infrastructure projects.
• Managed roadworks projects, including utility installations and surfacing.
• Led site teams to deliver projects safely and efficiently.

NVQ Level 2 - Bricklaying - Farnborough College

NVQ Level 2 - Carpentry - Farnborough College