HLM Architects is proud to announce the successful completion of its leadership transition, marking the next phase in its evolution as an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).
“HLM’s influence has never been stronger, but we’re not stopping here. We are committed to fostering an even more inclusive and nurturing workplace, advancing regenerative design, and pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation.” Philip Watson, Chair
HLM Architects is proud to announce the successful completion of its leadership transition, marking the next phase in its evolution as an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT). The Board of Directors, comprised of individuals who have been instrumental in shaping the practice’s future for several years, continues to drive HLM’s strategic vision forward. At the same time, several former shareholders are stepping into Strategic Director roles to ensure continuity and provide valuable expertise in key areas of the business. This carefully structured leadership shift, which commenced a decade ago, strengthens HLM’s position as an innovative, people-focused practice, ensuring long-term stability and future growth.
In April 2024, Philip Watson assumed the role of Chair, succeeding Richard O’Neil, while Michael Scherdel stepped into the role of Managing Director, taking over from Karen Mosley. Additionally, Lorraine Robertson transitioned into the role of Operations Director.
The Board of Directors includes Simon Bell, Claire Wakelin, Marcus Earnshaw, and Simon Chenery, with Mark Staniland remaining on the Board as Finance Director. Having served in leadership positions for several years, each member brings extensive experience and a deep understanding of HLM’s values and strategic direction.
Expanded Leadership Roles
Marcus Earnshaw, Simon Chenery, Claire Wakelin, Simon Bell, and Mark Staniland, who have each been longstanding members of HLM’s leadership team, continue in their board roles, building on the success they have helped shape. Their expertise and commitment remain pivotal as HLM moves into its next phase.
Marcus Earnshaw will continue to lead HLM’s digital and R&D initiatives, driving innovation across the business. His focus on emerging technologies and research will further embed forward-thinking solutions into HLM’s design approach, reinforcing the practice’s reputation as an industry leader in digital transformation.
Simon Chenery will be responsible for growing HLM’s commercial sector, working closely with the six regional studio teams to drive expansion and strengthen the practice’s presence in this sector across the UK and Ireland.
Claire Wakelin will continue in her role as education sector lead as well as becoming Board Sponsor for Bids and Marketing. She will play a vital role in refining HLM’s work-winning strategy.
Simon Bell takes on the role of Board Sponsor for the practice’s specialist services in Landscape and Masterplanning, ensuring these integral disciplines continue to evolve and align with HLM’s broader strategic goals. He will also focus on developing HLM’s multidisciplinary services, enhancing collaboration across different areas of expertise.
Mark Staniland continues as Finance Director, providing financial stewardship and ensuring the business remains on a strong and sustainable trajectory.
A Carefully Planned Transition
As part of the final phase of this transition, former Directors and shareholders, including Richard O’Neil and Karen Mosley, are stepping off the Board and into Strategic Director roles. This move ensures continuity and ongoing support for the leadership team while allowing them to focus on key business areas that will shape the practice’s future direction.
Richard O’Neil will focus on developing HLM’s portfolio of work in regeneration, David Cafferty will drive growth in the commercial and residential sectors, Chris Liddle will continue to lead HLM’s Defence sector, and Karen Mosley will lead the practice’s ongoing commitment to social impact and inclusion. John Clarke will continue to provide strategic corporate advice to the group.
Nick Beecroft, while embarking on a new venture in a different industry, will continue to provide consultancy services to HLM, ensuring his expertise remains accessible to the practice.
The leadership transition is the culmination of a long-term strategy set in motion by former Directors. Under the stewardship of Richard and Karen, HLM launched an Enhanced Executive Development Pathway, identifying and nurturing homegrown talent while also bringing in external expertise. This initiative included the strategic reappointment of Philip Watson after his decade-long tenure at Atkins, further strengthening the practice’s leadership.
HLM’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and social responsibility has resulted in key achievements, including:
- Sustainability Leadership – Achieving Zero Carbon goals, with the Circular Twin initiative winning AJ100’s Sustainability Initiative of the Year 2022.
- Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and Design for Manufacture and Assembly (DfMA) – Investing in research and delivering major industry initiatives, including work with the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities (DLUHC) on a digital kit of parts for low-rise housing.
- Workplace Culture – Recognised for 17 consecutive years in the Best Companies to Work For list.
- Industry Recognition – Winning Building’s Architectural Practice of the Year three times in the last five years and AJ100 Employer of the Year twice.
Philip Watson, Chair, expressed his excitement for the future, saying, “HLM’s influence has never been stronger, but we’re not stopping here. We are committed to fostering an even more inclusive and nurturing workplace, advancing regenerative design, and pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation.”
Michael Scherdel, Managing Director, highlighted the significance of this moment: “Having been part of HLM for over 30 years, I have seen first-hand the power of investing in our people. Our strong culture and strategic vision will continue to shape meaningful spaces for our clients and communities.”
Operations Director Lorraine Robertson echoed these sentiments, stating, “People are at the heart of everything we do—from our EOT structure to our design philosophy. As we move forward, we remain committed to nurturing talent and delivering impactful work that benefits society.”
Richard O’Neil reflected on the transition, stating, “Over a decade ago, we recognised the need for a robust succession plan to ensure long-term success. This transition is a testament to our belief in fostering talent and planning for the future. While stepping off the Board, I look forward to continuing to support the practice in a strategic capacity.”
Karen Mosley added, “Putting 100% ownership of the practice in the hands of our people through an EOT in 2020 was a natural step in our succession journey. Our inclusive culture and focus on our social impact will continue to be the driving force behind our success, and I am excited to remain involved in shaping the strategic direction of the business.”
The full transition of the Board is now complete, with HLM Architects embarking on this next chapter of innovation, collaboration, and employee-driven success.
