Richard Jones to head up ESS government business

Richard Jones has joined Compass Group’s ESS as managing director for its government business.

He joins from rival foodservice giant Sodexo, where he spent 13 years leading government contracts and delivering facilities management across the UK and beyond.

Prior to working in this industry, Jones spent 22 years in the British Army, having also graduated from the Royal College of Defence Studies.

He is a certified member of the Institute of Workplace and Facilities Management (IWFM), sits on the IWFM Veterans and FM Network, and a Lean Six Sigma Black Belt (organisational and management skills).

At ESS, Jones will be responsible for delivering services to high-profile clients within central government, police and secure environments, while also collaborating with colleagues across defence, energy, infrastructure and marine and aerospace.

He said: “The opportunity to collaborate with an incredibly talented group of people while contributing to the growth and success of the organisation is something I’m really looking forward to. Together, we’ll continue to deliver excellent services and exceptional value to our clients.”

Ronnie Kelman, managing director at ESS energy, government and infrastructure, added: “We’re thrilled to welcome Richard to the ESS leadership team following impressive careers within the FM industry and the British Army. Richard’s extensive knowledge, experience and dedication to delivering exceptional FM services will drive continued focus on enhancing the customer experience, maximising innovation to benefit our clients and growing our government business. I wish him every success in his new role.”

ESS Government Services has supported high-profile sites including the Ministry of Defence, Department of Work & Pensions, Department of Health, Welsh Government and Welsh Parliament.