The Oxford University Press (OUP) is one of the largest publishers in the UK, and is the world’s largest university press. Having published its first book in 1478, the OUP now publishes more than 4,500 new books a year, has a presence in over fifty countries, and employs some 3,700 people worldwide. The worldwide HQ in central Oxford employs 1,200 staff in office accommodation of over 30,000 sq metres. Stewart Pegum is the OUP’s Facilities Manager, responsible for all decisions regarding fabric, fittings and services for the building. He had this to say about his relationship with Beard.
How has your relationship with Beard developed?
My own relationship with Beards began in a previous job so it was natural to introduce them to the OUP when I joined five years ago. We have our own in-house maintenance team but we’ll call in Beard’s Property Services division for the larger jobs. These include internal alterations and refurbishment contracts that can range in cost from £500 up to £50,000.
In terms of multi-disciplined project work: from stripping out walls, putting in ceilings, associated decorating, carpeting and all electrical work, Beards have proved they are a one-stop shop.
What value has Beard brought to the relationship?
Being able to rely totally on Nick Bradley and the team gives me huge peace of mind. My job encompasses everything from washers to multi-million pound projects, with several projects on the go at any one time. I need to be able to rely on people with a “Can do” attitude. I know that Beard’s will respond quickly, resource everything to do with the project, regardless of its nature, and that they will finish on time. The jobs themselves may not always be high in cost but their value to the OUP is very high in terms of this service element.
Has the company evolved during your relationship?
There is a level of understanding that comes from knowing each other very well. They are totally familiar with this large site and its facilities so further induction is unnecessary. Also, we know that if we urgently require temporary cover for our in-house team at busy periods or holidays, help is only a phone call away. I cannot fault their willingness to go the extra mile.
Have you plans to work with Beard in the future?
There are several projects on the go at any one time over a twelve-month period.
They are currently on the tender list for several projects so we have every intention of continuing the relationship. They have won everything on merit and I see no reason why this will change. We appreciate their prompt response to every request and that they can be relied on to resource everything themselves. It explains why we keep coming back.
"I need to be able to rely on people with a “Can do” attitude. I know that Beard’s will respond quickly, resource everything to do with the project, regardless of its nature, and that they will finish on time."
Stewart Pegum, Facilities Manager, Oxford University Press
