It is with mixed emotions that we bid farewell to Neil Burdess, our longstanding Associate Head of Commissioning in the North. Neil is moving on from Banyards to dedicate himself fully to his new role as Chief Executive Officer at the Commissioning Specialists Association (CSA), following on from his 3-year Chairmanship.

Neil has been an invaluable asset to our team over the 11 years he’s been with us, delivering numerous prominent and technically challenging projects as well as developing and growing our Northern Commissioning Management team to what it is now. His leadership has not only driven our projects to success but has also inspired our people to reach new heights. Under Neil’s guidance, our team has thrived, demonstrating technical competence, efficiency and effectiveness.

While we will miss Neil’s presence and contributions at Banyards, we are excited to see him further his impact in the commissioning field through his work at the CSA. We are confident that he will continue to lead with the same passion and dedication that have characterised his tenure with us.

Dave Cocksedge (Banyards) said:

“It has been a pleasure to work with you Neil and I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank you for all your dedication, hard work, drive and commitment. You have been a fantastic member of our Senior Leadership team, and your contribution has been immense. Our Northern team will go from strength to strength as a result of the foundation you have built.

As well as leading projects such as the Manchester Engineering Campus Development (MECD), Christie Proton Beam and Manchester Town Hall, Neil has grown our team and service offering in the North which has seen us have two office moves in the time he has been with us. 

 Neil has built long standing relationships for us and leaves us with the team in a very strong position in terms of experienced personnel as well as current and forthcoming work over the years to come. 

 Please join us in wishing Neil the very best in his new role. His journey ahead is sure to be as remarkable as his time with us has been.”

Neil Burdess’s Journey with Banyards and the CSA

Reflecting on this remarkable journey Neil said:

“Our team in the North of England has achieved great things, working with some of the best clients on the most prestigious projects. None of this would have been possible without the incredible support and guidance of Nick Till, Dave Cocksedge, and the wider Banyards team over these past 11 years.

 A heartfelt thank you to my amazing team; your commitment, expertise, and dedication have made us an award-winning force. I cherish the memories of collecting our first CSA award for the Proton Beam ‘Project of the Year’ and seeing Tom Dunn and Tony Craig honoured as Commissioning Managers of the Year. As I move on, I am confident that Banyards will continue to thrive and set new standards in commissioning excellence.

 Now, I embark on a new adventure with the Commissioning Specialists Association, an organisation I have chaired for the past three years and sat on various committees for the past nine. My passion for commissioning excellence drives me forward, and together with Tony Anderson, we aim to enhance CSA’s training courses, elevate technical commissioning practices, and provide comprehensive industry guidance.

 Exciting plans lie ahead! I envision a digital future for the CSA, leveraging technology to advance our field with a framework that allows us to optimise and innovate. As I bid farewell to Banyards and embrace this new chapter, I look forward to contributing further to the wider commissioning industry and working with more of you in this evolving sector.”

The Commissioning Specialists Association Statement:

We at the Commissioning Specialists Association are thrilled to welcome Neil Burdess as our new Chief Executive Officer. Neil’s extensive experience and deep understanding of the commissioning industry, coupled with his proven leadership skills, make him a tremendous asset to our team.

Having chaired the CSA for the past three years, Neil’s vision and dedication have already left a significant mark. We look forward to his contributions as we continue to advance our mission of promoting excellence in commissioning. Neil’s expertise will be instrumental in enhancing our training programs, elevating technical practices, and guiding the industry towards a more innovative and efficient future.

Please join us in welcoming Neil to his new role at the CSA. We are excited about the future and the positive impact Neil will undoubtedly have on our organisation and the wider commissioning community.

Keith Barker (CSA Vice Chair) said:

“Neil has had a very positive effect on the CSA in his previous roles on our committees and particularly in the last three years as Chair. Having decided to expand the staff to cope with the ever-increasing level of our activities, we were delighted when he threw his hat in the ring. We could not pass up the opportunity to harness that creativity, positivity and enthusiasm and look forward to his input in bringing our exciting plans for the future to fruition.”