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Celebrating 40 Years of Service with Mike Stark, SELECT President and OCS Director of Data Cabling and Networks

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Mike Stark, the newly appointed President of SELECT, has dedicated an impressive 40 years to the electrical industry and within the OCS business. His journey began in 1984 when he joined Arthur McKay as a qualified electrician. Over the years, he held various roles, each contributing to his wealth of experience and expertise. From being an approved electrician to managing electrical contracts and overseeing operations, Mike’s commitment and adaptability shine through. His current role as Director of Data Cabling and Networks at OCS reflects his expertise in addressing the growing demands of artificial intelligence systems. His journey exemplifies dedication, adaptability, and leadership, making him a deserving recipient of the Long Service Award. We sat down with Mike to commemorate this occasion.

Tell us a bit about what you do.

My primary role within the projects side of OCS’s Mechanical and Engineering (M&E) services is to manage the Data Cabling and Networks business unit, overseeing health and safety, P&L, development, and training. In the technical services part of the OCS business, I lead the compliance team responsible for delivering Electrical Fixed Wire testing and Portable appliance testing to both direct customers and technical services customers. This includes managing health and safety, P&L, development, and training. Additionally, I serve as the Electrical Principal Duty holder for OCS UK & I, providing support and guidance whenever electrical solutions are needed. I also help the electrical apprentices within the projects side of OCS M&E services, conducting interviews, coaching, training, advising, and guiding each apprentice toward becoming a qualified electrician. Due to my extensive length of service, I am also the go-to person for guidance and advice.

What does a typical day look like for you?

No two days are the same, with such a variety of duties to cover and be involved in, the topics and subjects to address and resolve always vary.

What is your favourite thing about working here?

I have enjoyed my roles and gotten job satisfaction in a lot of instances, stemming from having a “can-do” attitude. I firmly believe in my abilities and, equally importantly, in the business’s goals and objectives. However, my favourite aspect is undoubtedly the people I work with.

Describe a challenging situation you faced at work and how you overcame it.

Initially, my main challenge was adapting to frequent changes in my working environment. However, I overcame this when the advantages of these changes were explained to me. Now, with the same philosophy, I embrace any further changes. You could say ‘change’ should be my middle name; it now comes naturally to me.

Tell us about a time when you felt proud to be part of this organisation.

When we’ve had apprentices win awards for their commitment, attitude, and application, we always tell our apprentices that we’re not seeking superstars. However, if an apprentice applies themselves correctly and receives an award, credit goes first to the apprentice and then to the business.

How has the technology and innovation landscape changed over your career? Tell us about two significant changes you’ve witnessed

From an electrical perspective, there have been significant changes to the regulations over the years. Currently, they seem to be evolving regularly. Two notable shifts include the introduction of renewable energy and positive enhancements to the training and testing of our electrical apprentices.

We can tell apprenticeships are quite important to you, can you tell us about why you believe they are key to securing the future of your profession?

The future is ‘electric,’ marked by the introduction and continuous improvement of various elements, including but not limited to renewables. These encompass Electric Vehicles, solar panels, wind turbine farms, and the transition of household appliances—such as boilers—to electric power. Additionally, the recent invention of ‘AI’ (artificial intelligence) adds to this electrifying landscape. All these advancements will necessitate qualified electricians, many of whom are generated through apprenticeships.

You recently became the SELECT president and are now receiving the Long Service Award, what do these career milestones mean to you?

They mean a lot to me personally but are not just an honour for myself but also for my family, especially my wife Lindsey who has been a rock and provided understanding support along the way. My mum and dad have also been a great support, I even got my photo taken with my mum with the SELECT President’s medal the other week in her care home. I wish my dad were still here to witness these great personal achievements. He was the one who pointed me in the right direction as a young 16-year-old, “get a trade behind you, son” were his guiding words.

What in your career are you looking forward to in the future?

Apart from retiring, only kidding! Meeting the challenges put in front of me head-on and addressing and achieving them to the best of my ability. I don’t think my peers, or our business can ask for anything more. I have always been told I have a “can-do” attitude. I hope to maintain the same approach and develop those around me, existing and new.

We congratulate and thank Mike for his years of service and look forward to his continued success within the business.

International Security Officers’ Day: A Sit-down with Steven Moore

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Today, we commemorate International Security Officers’ Day—an important occasion on the global calendar that honours the brave individuals who safeguard our public and private spaces. As an FM company, security constitutes a substantial part of our business. In the UK and Ireland, we employ over 5,000 officers serving diverse sectors, including retail, industry, construction, and the public sector. Today, the 24th of July (24/07), honours the role of a security officer who has to be present at all hours of the day, from early rises to night shifts, protecting us all so we can work, rest, play, or eat safely.

We sat down with Steven Moore, UK Security Managing Director, to discuss the current industry landscape for our security officers.

What are the challenges security officers face? 

Security officers play a crucial role in safeguarding our communities, but their work is not without its challenges. These dedicated professionals face high-pressure situations and confrontations while striving to provide exceptional customer service and enforce regulations. Moreover, their work can be physically demanding, with foot patrols and long hours of standing so everybody needs to stay motivated at all times. This is why it is important to celebrate their resilience and bravery not just today but every day of the year and recognise the risks they take to protect us all.

What are the industry challenges? 

The security industry faces several pressing challenges, most notably attracting the right diverse personnel to frontline and managerial positions within the sector. Working as a security officer is demanding, and it’s well-known that security officers within the retail sector face threats and verbal abuse daily. Attempting to attract new talent is difficult in environments where threats have escalated to verbal abuse and, in the worst cases, physical violence. Additionally, some local areas that have a high density of advertised roles are at saturation point, leading to fewer applicants. Brexit and the pandemic have also caused a shortage creating a skills gap.

With an industry that’s so competitive, unfortunately in certain circumstances, a ‘race to the bottom’ scenario can occur as we compete in a tight market. We are seeing companies undercut, not only straining the commercial model but also putting huge pressure on sub-contractors that operate under the ACS accreditation nationally. However, we are a company that strives to self-deliver throughout the UK which is an attractive proposition to our customers. 

Lastly, the dynamic threat landscape—from terrorism to cyber threats—requires constant adaptation.

What has OCS done to improve these challenges? 

We’ve implemented succession planning at all levels to ensure leadership continuity. To further strengthen our workforce, we’re leveraging the apprenticeship levy to deliver up to 200 apprenticeships in 2024, an initiative that aligns with our ESG commitments. This not only upskills our existing workforce but also cultivates future leaders. Regarding customer relationships, we’re selective in establishing long-term strategic partnerships with customers who value fair rates. Our due diligence process ensures that we work in partnership with our customers to provide attractive pay and conditions, enabling us to focus on securing our customers’ assets, information, brand, and environment. To keep our team informed, we continuously monitor Open Source Intelligence (OSIN), providing our managers, frontline colleagues, and customers with the necessary information to make informed decisions about their site’s security posture. We’ve also embraced technology by implementing artificial intelligence to supplement our existing technology, aiding our frontline colleagues in detecting and recording threats. Lastly, to tackle recruitment challenges, we’ve established collaborations with the DWP, local job centres, veteran communities, and other organisations. We hold job fairs in key locations and support individuals obtaining their licenses, to provide post-training jobs. These measures collectively reflect our commitment to improving our services and addressing the challenges we face in our operations.

‘I want to thank our security officers for their invaluable contributions each day in keeping thousands of customer sites across the UK and Ireland safe and secure. Your professionalism, dedication, and positive attitude bring an extraordinary value that makes OCS stand out. Once again thank you, everyone’s contributions add up to make the difference in everything that we do for our customers.’

How do we provide career progression opportunities for our security officers? 

We take a comprehensive approach to support the career progression of our security officers. We’ve made substantial investments in Virtual Reality (VR) training, providing an innovative alternative to conventional methods. Our bespoke VR training modules, designed to cover the core functionalities of security across most of our customer base, offer a unique and effective learning experience. In addition to VR, we have the OCS Academy, our custom e-learning platform. Here, officers can not only complete industry-specific training such as ACT, but also gain insights into the wider business and delve into topics of personal interest. This fosters continuous learning and development. Furthermore, we run an annual mentorship scheme, giving talented individuals the chance to learn from business leaders and managers. This is particularly beneficial for those aspiring to roles their mentors currently hold, facilitating knowledge transfer and leadership development. Through these initiatives, we aim to equip our security officers with the necessary resources and opportunities to advance their careers and achieve their professional goals. Our investment in our people underscores our commitment to excellence in security services.

Tell us about the successes of some of our security officers. 

Our security officers have consistently demonstrated exceptional performance, as evidenced by the recognition they’ve received through our TRUE star awards. These awards highlight the commendable actions of our front-line colleagues in the public sector.

In January, Robert Thomasi was recognised for his prompt response to a first aid incident where he provided CPR. Denise White, our February awardee, applied a defibrillator to a juror at GSC, saving his life. In March, the PS Gartcosh team was commended for their effective response to an incident within the Data Centre, where they managed a potential fire hazard, preventing it from escalating.

Stephen Crainie, our April awardee, was recognised for his unwavering support during challenging times, going above and beyond to cover shifts. In May, Gerry McDonald and Ian Simpson were acknowledged

for their empathetic response in supporting a female witness who experienced a panic attack and subsequent epileptic seizure. They ensured her dignity and wellbeing were maintained throughout the incident, which was well-received by both family and staff.

These successes underscore the dedication, professionalism, and commitment of our security officers in ensuring safety and providing exceptional service.

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OCS Catering Service Rated Exemplar by NHS England

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We are proud to announce that OCS catering services at St Bernard’s Hospital, part of West London NHS Trust, have retained their exemplary site status, a recognition given by NHS England to healthcare providers that have demonstrated excellence.

This achievement is a testament to our team’s commitment to delivering exceptional patient care, fostering a supportive work environment, promoting sustainability, and actively engaging with the communities they serve.

Receiving exemplar status from NHS England is no easy feat. Here are just a few of the ways in which our teams were able to demonstrate excellence:

  • Increasing the number of low-carbon and vegan/vegetarian dishes and regularly updating the menu to reflect the changing seasons.
  • Offering patients an ‘out of hours’ menu with food items they can prepare themselves at their convenience.
  • Arranging special meals for patients and their loved ones on Christmas and Valentine’s Day.
  • Partnering with Love British Food to incorporate more locally sourced products from farms and SMEs.
  • Launching a Soup Kitchen initiative to offer meals to those facing food insecurity.

We would like to congratulate our colleagues, whose dedication and ongoing demonstration of our TRUE Values has resulted in this well-deserved recognition, well done!

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Celebrating Excellence: OCS Business Units Shine with RoSPA Gold Awards

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We are delighted to announce that OCS has been honoured with multiple RoSPA Gold awards across our business. These prestigious accolades underscore the culture we have fostered, prioritising health and safety for our colleagues, customers, and the communities we serve.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA), a respected not-for-profit organisation, has dedicated over a century to helping people recognise and mitigate risks in various aspects of life—whether at home, on the road, at work, or during leisure activities. Their mission is to empower everyone to lead safer lives.

RoSPA’s Achievement Awards recognise outstanding health and safety performance. These awards are categorised into four tiers: Commendable, Bronze, Silver, and the highest honour, Gold. Achieving a Gold Award signifies a very high level of performance, including robust occupational health and safety management systems, exceptional risk control, and minimal incidents of error, harm, and loss.

The rigorous process for submitting an Achievement Award involves providing evidence-based insights into our safety measures and reflecting on our safety history and experiences within our safety department. These measures are tailored to the unique demands of our various roles, whether it’s ensuring safety during at-height window cleaning or maintaining heavy machinery.

The following business units across OCS have been awarded Gold:

We take immense pride in our business units’ dedication to safety, and we’re thrilled to see so many of them achieve the highest results. This accomplishment exemplifies our dedication to safeguarding lives and well-being.

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    Awards & Recognition

OCS Provide Summer Employment Opportunities in Tower Hamlets

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Overview:

When Queen Mary University prepared to temporarily transition its Mile End campus into a hotel for summer visitors, OCS was awarded the contract to deliver housekeeping and portering services. Recognising this as an exceptional chance to uplift the local community, OCS committed to recruiting from disadvantaged groups across the London Borough of Tower Hamlets

OCS formed key partnerships with employment support organisations Employment4All, Maximus, Ingeus, Springboard, and Hackney Quest. Together, we organised a volume recruitment event on site to interview candidates and offer immediate summer roles at the living wage of £13.50 per hour – above the Real London Living Wage.

OCS formed key partnerships with employment support organisations Employment4All, Maximus, Ingeus, Springboard, and Hackney Quest. Together, we organised a volume recruitment event on site to interview candidates and offer immediate summer roles at the living wage of £13.50 per hour – above the Real London Living Wage.

“We really enjoyed collaborating with the social value team to deliver this localised recruitment project. TTheir connections to community partners were invaluable for reaching candidates who may have otherwise slipped through the cracks.”

Ross Johnston

Facilities Operations Director at OCS

This summer not only provides them with steady income and valuable housekeeping skills, but a foot in the door at OCS. At the conclusion of the university contract, OCS intends to redeploy as many team members as possible across other sites, facilitating lasting career opportunities.

By tapping into established community organisations, OCS unlocked access to talent pools too often overlooked. The partnerships allowed OCS to extend a meaningful hand up to Tower Hamlets residents facing disadvantages such as long-term unemployment, lack of skills training, and other socioeconomic barriers. In providing well-paying roles and potential paths to permanent work, OCS delivered significant social value through economic empowerment and inclusion.

Looking ahead, OCS aims to replicate this localised recruitment model to make a positive impact in other boroughs where we operate.

 

OCS Pledges Commitment to National Business Crime Centre’s Safe Spaces Scheme

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We are proud to announce that we are part of twelve leading private security service providers that have pledged to support the National Business Crime Centre’s Safe Spaces scheme, which is also known as Operation Portum. This comprehensive initiative invites businesses to participate and contribute to the creation of safer environments within cities, town centers, and retail parks. 

By joining this scheme, we have made a commitment to raise awareness among our security officers about Operation Portum’s core principles. Additionally, we will provide guidance to our private security personnel on how to effectively support and assist individuals who may feel vulnerable. Our dedication to this cause underscores their commitment to fostering safety and well-being in communities.

The response we have had from the private security industry to the scheme has been tremendous. With so many of the large security companies joining the scheme, there will be thousands of security staff up and down the country given training on the scheme and know what to do if someone is feeling unsafe and asks for their help. By working together we can help people feel safer in their communities.

Supt Patrick Holdaway

NBCC lead

There are many reasons why someone may feel vulnerable or unsafe when they are out. Private security staff can provide a reassuring presence as someone in a uniform that can be trusted to help someone in need of help. I am pleased that so many private security companies have signed up the NBCC’s Safe Spaces scheme working collaboratively to protect any individual who requires support.

Assistant Chief Constable Samantha Millar

National Police Chiefs’ Council lead for violence against women and girls

OCS is proud to support the National Safe Spaces scheme. This initiative aligns with our commitment to enhancing community safety and providing a secure environment. By training our security colleagues on the principles of Operation Portum, we can ensure that vulnerable individuals receive the support they need. We believe in the power of collaboration and are dedicated to playing our part in making public spaces safer.

Steven Moore

OCS Managing Director – Security UK

OCS Wins Large Employer Award at West Midlands Adult Learning Awards in Partnership with Pilot IMS

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Last week we were honoured with the Large Employer Award by West Midlands Adult Learning in partnership with Pilot IMS. The award recognises OCS’s outstanding commitment to workforce development and community engagement.

OCS has harnessed the power of Sector-Based Work Academy Programmes (SWAPs) to empower West Midlands residents. These innovative programmes designed by Pilot IMS with our full support focuses on the security, events, and venues industry—a vital sector for the regional economy. By collaborating with Pilot IMS, OCS has created a pathway for in

Through SWAPs, participants undergo a rigorous four to eight-week practical and tailored training course, equipping them with essential skills for roles in security, visitor management, and stewarding. All programme learners receive guaranteed interviews with OCS, ensuring a seamless transition into employment.

OCS also actively engages with each potential recruit, ensuring their training aligns with the company’s business needs. Live observations and assessments take place at prominent venues, including the NEC, Resorts World Arena, and Utilita Arena Birmingham.

OCS’s exponential growth in the West Midlands has created hundreds of part-time and full-time opportunities for local residents. The SWAPs programme establishes an ongoing pipeline of referral opportunities, even reaching multiple members within the same families.

“We are thrilled to receive the Large Employer Award. Our collaboration with Pilot IMS has allowed us to make a tangible impact on the lives of West Midlands residents. Through SWAPs, we’re not only providing employment but also fostering a sense of community and empowerment. Thank you to WMCA for the prestigious recognition.”

Baldip Manku

OCS Training Specialist

Our partnership with OCS has been a beacon of progress and community empowerment in the West Midlands. The recognition by West Midlands Adult Learning that OCS was the Large Employer of The Year is not just an award; it’s a testament to our collective dedication to transforming lives through employment and training. This accolade further supports Pilot’s recent Ofsted grade of “Outstanding for Adult Education”, highlighting our commitment to excellence and the positive impact we have on the community. Together with OCS, we are setting a standard for meaningful corporate-community partnerships, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this impactful journey.

Andy Pettigrew

Company Owner, Pilot IMS

Embracing Sustainability: Ushering in Net Zero Week with Our ESG Impact Report 

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Net Zero Week is the UK’s official national awareness week drawing attention to the impacts of climate change and a call to action for businesses and playmakers to take strides towards sustainability. At OCS, we are heeding this call as we take meaningful strides to demonstrate our commitment to delivering positive impacts on our environment and society. Engaging in a multitude of activities aimed at safeguarding our planet, we recognise that transparency is paramount. By sharing our Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) impact report with the public for the first time, we aim to foster accountability and underscore our dedication to three critical aspects: the environment, our people, and governance. 

This report sheds light on our efforts last year and we invite you to explore the depth of our commitment and join us in our collective mission to protect our precious planet. 

The merger with Atalian Servest’s operations in the UK, Ireland, and Asia has catapulted us into the echelons of the world’s largest international facilities service providers. This momentous union marks a pivotal step in our quest to become the best facilities service provider in the world. And at the heart of this journey lies a fundamental pillar: ESG. 

A Shared Commitment

As a proud member of the OCS Group, our UK and Ireland team is steadfastly aligned with this mission. We refuse to shy away from the challenges that lie ahead. Instead, we embrace an approach rooted in evidenced action—a commitment to tangible progress. This ethos permeates every facet of our organisation, from the shop floors to the boardrooms. 

Setting Ambitious Goals

Our ESG culture has undergone a remarkable evolution since 2023, fuelled by the winds of change sweeping through our business landscape. We’ve pivoted with purpose, casting a brighter and more ambitious spotlight on integrating sustainability into our corporate DNA. We recognise that we are at the beginning of a long journey, but we remain committed to enhancing our progress reports as we work toward our goals.  

OCS ESG Impact Report Inside Cover

Net Zero GHG Emissions by 2040

On theme with Net Zero Week, our compass points resolutely toward a bold goal—to achieve net zero greenhouse gas emissions across all our UK and Ireland operations by 2040. Together, we can turn this vision into reality. Sixteen years may seem fleeting, but the urgency of our planet’s needs propels us forward.

Leadership and Strategy

As part of our commitment to ESG principles, we have bolstered our ESG team for the UK and Ireland. Their mandate is to elevate our sustainability initiatives to new heights. But our efforts don’t end there. In 2024, we have conducted a materiality assessment—a compass that will guide our ESG strategy, which will be launched later this year. We are deliberate in identifying the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) we champion and determining where our impact can be most profound. These considerations drive our purposeful journey. 

Reshaping Tomorrow

As stewards of sustainability, we’re reshaping the contours of responsible management. Our larger business enterprise is charting a course that transcends mere profit margins. It’s about making a difference—socially, environmentally, and commercially. Net Zero Week isn’t just a calendar event; it’s a call to action. And we heed that call with resolve. Together, we’ll forge a future where our legacy is one of stewardship, leaving footprints of positive change across the globe. 

You can read the full report here.

Download Our ESG Impact Report 2023

Download Our ESG Impact Report 2023

ESG Impact Report 2023

OCS Partners with Avena and RK Styles to Recycle Legacy Uniforms

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OCS has seen a lot of positive transformation since the merger with Atalian Servest in March 2023. With transformation comes change and in every aspect of our business we aim to process change as sustainably as possible.

In vein with Net Zero Week this week, we recognise the impact of modern waste, particularly clothing waste — with about 30% of unwanted clothing ending up in landfill in the UK, translating to an estimated £140 million worth of clothing ending up in landfill — we were determined to ensure that our growth and progress would not be marred by waste. To achieve this, we partnered with recycling specialists, Avena and our uniform partners, RK Styles, to phase out our old-branded uniforms.

Working closely with experts in the field, we designed a custom solution to map out various ways the old uniforms could be reused. From February to April 2024, we successfully recycled over 4,000 items, weighing nearly 2.5 tonnes. The former uniforms were repurposed into yarn, mattress filling, pellets for energy generation and insulation textiles, serving entirely new purposes.

Avena implemented a unique process for recycling the uniforms, emitting only 0.05 tonnes of emissions thereby saving over 1 tonne of CO2e if the items had been instead sent to landfill. The savings from this process are equivalent to driving 2,931 miles in a petrol car across the width of the United States.

We are thrilled to contribute positively to the environment and consider this initiative one of the many steps we take toward environmental stewardship in all aspects of our business.

Avena is proud to partner with OCS to securely manage, destroy, and process their end-of-life uniforms. Our commitment to security ensures that all branded uniforms are destroyed beyond recognition, preventing any possibility of them entering the public domain and mitigating potential criminal misuse. The sustainability benefits of our SecureBrand service, adopted by OCS, guarantee that all collected materials avoid landfills entirely, resulting in significant emissions savings. This partnership with OCS and their uniform suppliers, RK Styles, has positioned OCS as an industry leader, setting a new standard in the facilities sector for the responsible processing of thousands of end-of-life uniforms.

Michael Tippling​​​​

Avena Sales Manager

We are proud to support OCS in their commitment to sustainability by facilitating the recycling of their uniforms in partnership with Avena. This not only helps reduce textile waste but also sets a powerful example of how organisations can collaborate to make a positive environmental impact. Together, we are driving change and fostering a culture of responsibility and sustainability.

Thomas Ridgley

RK Styles ESG Manager

It’s incredibly important to us that we always consider sustainable approaches in everything we do. We’re delighted with the outcomes of our partnership with Avena and RK Styles, ensuring that those uniforms didn’t end up as yet another clothing item in a landfill. We look forward to continuing in this vein and working diligently to contribute to the health of the environment.

Jacky So

OCS UK & I, ESG Director

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Ringo Francis Joins OCS as Non-Executive Director 

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We are delighted to announce the appointment of Ringo Francis as Non-Executive Director, effective immediately. Ringo brings a wealth of experience in the cleaning and hygiene industry, aligning perfectly with OCS’s mission to make people and places the best they can be. 

Ringo, the founder and former CEO of The Zenith Hygiene Group Plc, led the company from its inception in 1996 to its sale to Bain Capital in April 2018. Under his leadership, Zenith Hygiene grew from annual revenues of over £1 million in its first year to approximately £100 million through organic growth and strategic acquisitions. He successfully contributed to the consolidation of the UK hygiene market and oversaw the acquisition of ten companies, significantly expanding operations to employ over 500 staff across ten depots. 

“I am thrilled to join OCS at this exciting point in its journey. The company’s dedication to innovation, excellence, and core values is inspiring. OCS is at the forefront as the industry evolves, creating outstanding environments for people and places. I look forward to supporting the team’s mission, success, and growth.”

Ringo Francis

Ringo’s 30 years of experience have garnered him a tremendous reputation in the UK & Ireland. His industry accolades included PWC’s CEO of the Year for the Southeast East Region in 2016 and Grant Thornton’s top 200 Hertfordshire company for Zenith Hygiene Group Plcp in the same year. Additionally, he was recognised as one of the Chancellor’s 1000 Companies to Inspire Britain. He is currently a Non-Executive Director and investor in ClenzAir & CEH Technology, and he also serves as Director and Trustee at Hospitality Action. Ringo’s leadership has consistently driven significant operational improvements and strategic growth across these organisations. 

Our TRUE values of Trust, Respect, Unity, and Empowerment resonate deeply with Ringo’s leadership and team-building approach. His commitment to delivering outstanding results and fostering lasting relationships aligns seamlessly with our dedication to providing the best experiences, productivity, practices, resilience, and outcomes. 

“We are delighted to welcome Ringo to the OCS family. His extensive experience and achievements in the cleaning and hygiene industry will be instrumental as we continue accelerating growth. Ringo’s leadership and strategic insights will help us drive innovation, enhance our services, and strengthen our commitment to creating the best outcomes for our colleagues, customers, and communities.”

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Rob Legge

OCS Group CEO

South Western Railway Renews Partnership with OCS

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We are thrilled to announce the continuation of our successful partnership with South Western Railway (SWR). Following a contract extension, we remain dedicated to delivering exceptional services that enhance the travel experience for SWR’s passengers.

Key Drivers for Renewal 

The contract renewal with SWR is grounded in three fundamental drivers: 

Transparency and Delivery: We have consistently demonstrated transparency in our operations, ensuring that SWR receives accurate and timely information. Despite general resourcing challenges, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to delivering exceptional services. 

Collaboration: We recognise the importance of collaboration in achieving shared goals. By working closely with SWR, we have fostered a strong partnership that benefits both parties. 

Innovation: OCS thrives on innovation. We continuously seek new ways to enhance efficiency, effectiveness, and sustainability. Its innovative solutions have positively impacted SWR’s operations. 

As we renew our partnership with OCS, we remain committed to delivering exceptional service to our passengers. OCS’s dedication to transparency, collaboration, and innovation aligns perfectly with our vision for an improved travel experience.

Charlie Hatcher

Head of Train Presentation, South Western Railway

Addressing Challenges 

Since the pandemic, many industries have faced the challenge of maintaining a sustained workforce.  We have strategically addressed this, resulting in transformative outcomes.  Over the past three years, we have diligently built a stable and reliable workforce for SWR. Our consistent efforts in recruitment and training have contributed to a motivated team that ensures smooth operations. 

Our exceptional cleaning  has also aided  in maintaining SWR’s fleet standards. The trains offer a welcoming environment and passengers can travel comfortably, knowing that cleanliness is a top priority. 

Digital Transformation 

As a testament to our commitment, we have revolutionised data/performance tracking on-site. We transitioned from manual paper-based processes to a sophisticated APP that captures real-time information visualised on PowerBi. This digital transformation has streamlined operations and improved efficiency.  

We also digitised 99% of the contract’s inspection, checklists and training records. This proactive approach ensures compliance and quality control. 

 Sustainability Initiatives 

We remain committed to environmental stewardship. To reduce carbon footprint, we introduced a chemical-free cleaning solution produced on-site. By minimising product transportation costs and promoting eco-friendly practices, we contribute to a greener future. 

I’m very proud that OCS’s working relationship with SWR is to continue. Our investment in innovative equipment and technological solutions, together with our commitments to ESG, are supporting SWR with their strategic objectives. Our team, which delivers exceptional services every day in challenging circumstances, is a source of huge pride.

Richard Marshall

Sector Managing Director Transport, OCS UK & Ireland

Armed Forces Day: Honouring Our Veteran Colleagues 

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Armed Forces Day was on Saturday, the 29th and to usher the day in, last week, we spoke to our Group CEO, Rob Legge,  about the importance of being a forces-friendly employer. It’s crucial that we play our part in helping to support our troops as they reenter civilian life after their time in service, along with providing necessary aid for their families and loved ones. 

In honour of this effort, we are highlighting two of our colleagues who have served. We are sharing their unique stories, detailing their journey from the force to being part of our global effort to make people and places the best they can be here at OCS.  

Meet Bir Bahadur-Rai and Carl Gage. 

Bir Bahadur-Rai: From Military Service to Security Supervisor

Two pictures of Bir Bahadur-Rai: on the left a picture of him in his Military uniform, on the right as a Security Supervisor for OCS

Bir Bahadur Rai is a former British Army Gurkha who spent 15 years in the military after joining in 1979 at the age of 20 in Hong Kong. His active service included a deployment to the Falkland Islands in 1986 to clear mines and booby traps, four years after the war with Argentina. 

After retiring from the Gurkhas in 1994, Bir returned to Hong Kong and worked as a security officer for the Jardin Company. He later moved to the US Embassy in Dubai and worked in security before settling in the UK in 2016. His journey also involved working on cruise ships, serving at the American Embassy in Afghanistan, and being part of the Gurkha Reserve Unit in Brunei. 

Bir’s transition to a security supervisor role at Greenham Business Park was facilitated by the Forces Employment Charity (FEC), which connected him with site manager Brendon Ferreira. 

“I’m really enjoying working within OCS. It’s not easy to find work at my age and I feel lucky to have this and to have found OCS. This place is unique,” says Bir.  

“Everything is organised. My duties are planned for almost a year ahead which empowers me to plan and hone my skills accordingly. I have learned many new things at this site and with OCS. The role has also helped me with my personal life, solving many problems and giving me the security I was initially looking for.” he adds.

Carl Gage: From Naval Chef to Facilities Management

Two Images of Carl Gage: On the left as a Naval Chef, on the right working in Facilities Management

Carl Gage is a former member of the Royal Navy. He embarked on his military journey at 17, inspired by his great-uncle’s stories and his passion for home economics. He trained at HMS Raleigh in Plymouth and served on his first ship, HMS Liverpool, a Type 42 Destroyer. His service included peacekeeping missions and the evacuation of expats from Lebanon to Cyprus during a conflict with Syria. 

He fondly recalls his time in the service, from the initial shock of having his hair shaved off to the rewarding experiences he gained. He was not only a chef but also a firefighter and part of the damage control and disaster recovery teams. He rose through the ranks, becoming one of the youngest leading hands at 21 and a local acting Petty Officer by 25. 

After nearly a decade in the service, he decided to start a new career. With the help of the Royal Navy’s resettlement program, he transitioned into the FM industry. He began as a QHSE Auditor at an FM company, auditing hard services for customers. His military skills, particularly in communication and leadership, proved invaluable in his new role. 

He is now a regional director at OCS, responsible for six key customers and managing a P&L of approximately £30m yearly. He appreciates the similarities between the military and FM, particularly the variety each day brings. He is also involved in OCS’s efforts to honour the Armed Forces Covenant and support the military community. 

Reflecting on his journey, he credits his success to the drive and determination instilled in him by the military. He encourages anyone leaving the forces to explore opportunities in FM, highlighting the many transferable skills ex-military personnel can offer potential employers. His story is a testament to the rewarding experiences and valuable skills that a military career can provide, and how these can be successfully applied to a civilian career. 

“I have been extremely fortunate in both my careers in the Royal Navy & the FM Industry and would probably say some of it has been right place right time, but nothing has been achieved without drive and determination and that is something the military has instilled in me. The FM industry is certainly rewarding if you are willing to put the effort in.” 

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