We’re excited to launch a new monthly series that shines a spotlight on the people who make Highview what it is. From their roles within the business to their interests outside of work, we’ll be getting to know the individuals who help drive our success every day.
For our first edition, we sat down with Gary Spicer, Senior Partnership Manager, to learn more about his role at Highview, his career journey, and what he enjoys doing away from the office. It was a fantastic conversation, and we’re looking forward to sharing his story with you.
Read on to find out more about Gary and the valuable contribution he makes to the Highview team. 👇
🔹 What has been your career journey leading up to this role, and what initially interested you in becoming a Senior Partnership Manager?
“I started my working life as an apprentice electrician, working my way up to become a qualified electrician and delivering commercial and domestic projects across London and the South East. During that time, I enjoyed building relationships with clients and found myself naturally gravitating towards the people side of the industry. I wanted a role where I could combine my construction knowledge with building relationships and helping connect people, which ultimately led me to my current role.
Coming from a construction background helps in my role today. Having spent time on site and worked on projects myself, I have a good understanding of how things come together and some of the challenges that can arise along the way. It helps me have more informed conversations and gives me a different perspective when speaking with clients, consultants and colleagues”
🔹Could you tell us about your role and what it involves on a day-to-day basis?
“My role is varied from day to day. I work closely with existing clients, gathering feedback, addressing any issues, and regularly checking in to ensure everything is running smoothly from their perspective. I also engage with new clients to understand their upcoming projects and explore how Highview’s services can support their requirements.
Highview delivers a wide range of services across the public & private sectors, including roofing, external refurbishment works, windows and doors, retrofit, and fire safety works. Part of my role is understanding our clients’ challenges and helping connect them with the right expertise within our business.
Internally, I work closely with our operational, commercial and bid teams to ensure we are aligned in our approach to clients and opportunities. I help facilitate conversations across the business, share client feedback, identify areas for improvement and support collaboration between teams. I am also involved in our social value initiatives, helping identify opportunities where Highview can create a positive impact for residents and communities.’’
🔹What would you say is one of the most important skills to have in a role like yours?
“The ability to listen is key. It’s important to understand what clients and colleagues are saying, identify the information that matters, and connect the right people and opportunities together. Being personable is also essential, as building strong relationships is a big part of the role.”
🔹How do you build and maintain strong relationships with partners and clients?
“For me, it’s about being yourself. You’re not going to be everyone’s cup of tea, and that’s fine, but I think people appreciate someone who is genuine. I enjoy getting to know people, having a chat and understanding what matters to them. I try to make time for people, keep in touch and be approachable. At the end of the day, good relationships are built through regular conversations and getting to know people properly.”
🔹Is there a piece of advice you have received throughout your career that has really stuck with you and that you would pass on to others?
“It’s nice to be important, but it’s more important to be nice.”
🔹What are some of the biggest challenges you face in your role, and how do you overcome them?
“There are always a lot of moving parts. On any given day, I could be speaking with clients, consultants, operational teams and colleagues across the business, all while keeping up to date with new opportunities and ongoing projects. Staying organised, communicating clearly and making time for people is what helps me manage that.’’
🔹What achievement or partnership are you most proud of during your time at Highview?
‘’It’s difficult to pick just one achievement, as I’ve been fortunate to work with some great people since joining Highview. For me, the most rewarding part of the role is getting to know people, understanding what is important to them and building strong working relationships.
No two days are the same, and I enjoy being involved in conversations both inside and outside the business, helping connect people and supporting projects as they develop. Seeing things come together and knowing you’ve played a small part in that is always satisfying.’’
🔹Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests?
“I enjoy playing all sorts of sports, including football, padel, and golf. I also enjoy running, and I’m hoping to take part in the London Marathon next year for charity.”
🔹What’s something people might be surprised to learn about you?
“I’m a performer, my rendition of Genuwine – Pony was a show stopper! 😂😂
🔹If you could have dinner with any person, past or present, who would it be and why?
“My dad, just to have the chance to see & talk to him again.”