3rd December 2025
Written by Rachel Wallace
This year has seen several members of our property team reach major milestones, and one of them is Simon Bradford, one of our dedicated Surveyors. Simon celebrated his 10-year anniversary with us this past October, so we caught up with him, and even joined him for a day out in Cumbria, to learn more about his role, his journey, and how things have changed over the past decade.
Where were you before and what brought you to Robinsons?
Before joining Robinsons, I spent 14 years in the public sector with a large social housing provider. I worked as a Contracts Manager within the repairs and maintenance division before moving into a more specialist role as Compliance Manager, overseeing the organisation’s property portfolio.
When Robinsons approached me about a Regional Surveyor position, I saw it as an important next step in my career - an opportunity to gain leadership experience in a dynamic environment and expand my skills into new areas. The company’s culture, strong family values, and commitment to teamwork, communication, and professional development made the decision an easy one.
And, of course, I couldn’t resist the chance to work in some of the most idyllic pubs in the country - what’s not to love?
So, what does a typical week look like for you?
My work really does vary - it’s far more than the traditional surveys most people associate with a building surveyor. I cover a wide range of responsibilities, including dilapidations, condition reports, building defect investigations, and project management. It involves wearing many different hats, and in that sense, you could say I’m the GP of the property world.
I oversee a large portfolio of around 65 pubs across our estate, which means I can be in several different parts of the country in a single week. My region includes Greater Manchester, Lancashire, Yorkshire, and Cumbria, so no two days are ever the same. For example, this week I’ve been in Cumbria for three days and also attended the Craven Heifer relaunch - where, naturally, I still found myself helping resolve a few minor issues!
People’s perceptions of what a surveyor does can be quite limited, so I hope this gives a clearer picture of just how diverse and important the role really is.
You’ve been with us for 10 years now. From your perspective, what’s changed the most?
A lot has changed over the years. We have developed a much greater understanding of our assets [properties] developing much more detailed improvement programmes and compliance systems. The biggest shift has definitely been in how we have recorded and managed information. Believe it or not, not that long ago everything was handwritten and stored on a house file. As you can imagine, it wasn’t very efficient - and if anything got lost, it was a nightmare.
With the introduction of digital asset management systems, we have been able to improve data and target surveying to drive maintenance and budgeting improvements and ultimately ensure investment is carried out in the right areas. Issues are documented instantly. For example, following an inspection we can record repairs more accurately. Descriptions are important but photographic evidence uploaded to the system can ensure work requests are completed right first time by our contractors.
What would you say you find most challenging about your role?
I’d have to say the unexpected issues. One thing I have learned in my time here is that unforeseen items can be business critical, meaning we have to carry out works within very tight timescales - or you uncover something else that’s of a more complex nature - it can completely change the project and have a massive impact to a business. It’s part of the job and whilst difficult to manage, can be very rewarding when it all comes together.
With the role, what do you think is most important to help with success?
A key aspect of this role is building and maintaining strong relationships. This is essential, as we work with a wide range of individuals, each with their own personalities and working styles. We also liaise with numerous external parties, including structural engineers, local authorities, contractors, and the teams within the pubs themselves.
It’s important to remain approachable and collaborative so that all stakeholders feel confident and engaged. When these relationships are nurtured effectively, it ensures that everyone works together smoothly and productively.
Have you got any exciting projects coming up that you are excited to see the results of?
I’ve had the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects over the years, each offering its own unique challenges and learning experiences. I will soon be managing a full refurbishment (CAPEX) scheme for a property I oversee in the Lake District. The project will be complex and demanding in many respects, I am excited for the challenge and am eager to engage with it fully.
I’m genuinely looking forward to seeing the project come to life and to hearing the feedback once it is completed. It’s an exciting opportunity to deliver meaningful improvements and add real value to the property.
What would you say you enjoy most of the job?
What I enjoy most about my role is the incredible variety it offers. I’m fortunate to work with a fantastic and supportive team, and no two days are ever the same. The areas I cover give me the opportunity to visit some truly beautiful places and contribute to the care of iconic historic properties – which is both rewarding and inspiring to me.
And finally, we know you shouldn’t have favourites, but do you have a favourite pub and if so, which one and why?
Yes - the Golden Rule! I truly think it’s such a quintessentially English country pub, full of character and charm. Its timeless interior, unchanged for years, creates a wonderfully cosy atmosphere and it is the perfect place to unwind after a walk through the Cumbrian countryside! It’s a real gem, and has great service and an excellent pint.
