As Contracts Manager at AC Group, Robert Lathwood brings over seven years of hands-on experience in the passive fire protection industry. He plays a key role in overseeing fire stopping and timber fire door installation projects, ensuring every aspect meets strict safety, compliance, and quality standards.
Robert’s dedication to excellence is backed by strong professional credentials, he holds an NVQ Level 2 in Passive Fire Protection, an ABBE Level 3 Award in Understanding and Installing Passive Fire Protection and is fully FIRAS accredited. His deep technical knowledge and attention to detail enable him to manage projects efficiently, from planning through to final inspection.
Beyond technical expertise, Robert is known for his approachable, team-oriented style. He believes that clear communication and collaboration are essential to delivering outstanding results, not only achieving compliance but also creating safer, more resilient environments for clients and communities.
Whether coordinating large-scale installations or guiding teams through complex fire safety requirements, Robert combines professionalism with a friendly, down-to-earth attitude that makes working with him both reassuring and enjoyable.
Nick joined AC AOV in 2025, as our Small Works Manager. With nearly ten years of experience as an Electrical Engineering Manager, he has led a wide variety of projects and supported engineering teams across the UK. Known for his practical approach and strong attention to detail, he is committed to delivering safe, compliant, and high-quality installations. Taking on project management responsibilities, he works collaboratively with clients and stakeholders to ensure projects are delivered smoothly and successfully from start to finish.
Paul is a highly capable Site Manager delivering works within the challenging environment of Manchester Royal Infirmary. He oversees site activities, enforces robust health and safety controls, and ensures programmes are achieved without compromising clinical services. Paul is particularly experienced in managing phased works and complex interfaces within occupied healthcare buildings.
Kevin is an experienced Project Manager leading the delivery of healthcare construction projects at Wythenshawe Hospital. He brings strong technical knowledge, commercial awareness, and stakeholder management skills, ensuring projects are delivered safely, compliantly, and to programme. Kevin plays a key role in coordinating live works while maintaining uninterrupted hospital services.
Anton is a Site Manager responsible for managing live construction works across Wythenshawe Hospital. His role includes site coordination, subcontractor management, quality assurance, and ensuring works are delivered in line with NHS standards. Anton’s structured approach and strong site presence help maintain safety, quality, and continuity of hospital operations.
Adrian founded AC Group in 1997 and has grown it from a single-person operation into a multi-disciplinary organisation employing more than 100 people. Under his leadership, the company has achieved major milestones including NICEIC Membership (2005), CHAS, Constructionline and SafeContractor accreditations (2012), and ISO 9001 and ISO 14001 (2018) alongside multiple relocations and the development of expanded operational facilities.
Renowned for his exceptional relationship-management skills, Adrian is pivotal to the business’s ongoing development, maintaining AC Group’s position at the forefront of new opportunities, client partnerships, and emerging industry trends.
In 2025, he was appointed to the Employer Industry Board (EIB) for Building Services Engineering with City & Guilds, contributing strategic insight to shape the future of skills and standards across the sector.
Aaron is a Project Manager delivering multidisciplinary construction projects at Manchester Royal Infirmary. He manages projects from early planning through to handover, coordinating design teams, subcontractors, and client stakeholders. Aaron is highly experienced in working within operational healthcare settings, ensuring compliance, cost control, and programme certainty throughout delivery.
Noah joined AC Group in September 2025 as part of the accounts team, supporting the purchase ledger function and contributing to the efficient management of supplier accounts and financial processes.
Prior to joining the business, [Name] completed their studies in 2023 before progressing to college, where they studied Maths, Accounting and History. Alongside their studies, they developed strong discipline and responsibility through a part-time role as a lifeguard with Active Tameside.
Noah brings a proactive attitude and a strong foundation in numeracy and organisation, supporting the continued development of the finance function within AC Group.
Keane joined AC Group as an Apprentice Junior Project Manager after completing his Level 3 in Building Services Electrical Engineering, which included his Electro-technical certification. He is now studying towards the Level 4 in the same course, continuing to build his knowledge of electrical design, coordination and construction management.
Since joining AC Group, Keane has taken on a wide range of responsibilities that support both the office and the site aspects of the business. A large part of his role involves managing the reactive side of the company, which includes handling paperwork, preparing invoices and booking and scheduling jobs to ensure everything runs smoothly. He also assists with RAMS, tenders and produces as fitted drawings using AutoCAD.
Keane has gained valuable experience working on site across several AC Group projects, allowing him to see how design, safety and delivery come together in real construction environments. This hands-on exposure has helped him build a strong understanding of project processes and the importance of clear communication between teams.
With a genuine interest in both the electrical and construction sides of the business, Keane is eager to continue developing his skills in project management. He aims to keep progressing within AC Group and contribute to the successful delivery of future projects while building a long-term career within the industry.
Joe Holderness joined AC Group as Junior Project Manager in June 2024 . He joined from Hopwood Hall College where he attained a merit in his Building Service Engineering T- Level. Joe supports projects through planning, coordination, and cost management, helping ensure work runs smoothly and meets required standards while gaining valuable experience in the electrical and construction industry. He is working towards a degree in building service engineering.
Alexia began her career with AC Group in October 2022 as an Administrator, quickly establishing herself as a reliable member of the team.
In 2023, she successfully completed her Level 3 Business Administration qualification, further strengthening her expertise in office operations and administrative support.
In addition to her core administrative responsibilities, Alexia also serves as Fleet Manager, maintaining 40 company vans, ensuring efficient scheduling, compliance, and maintenance.
Her role extends to producing detailed Operation & Maintenance (O&M) manuals, managing accommodation bookings, and overseeing equipment calibrations.
Alexia plays a key role in internal and external communications, creating monthly newsletters and managing weekly social media content to keep staff and stakeholders informed and engaged.
She is also responsible for processing equipment and material orders, generating purchase orders, and supporting daily business operations across departments.
Known for her organisation, reliability, and commitment to excellence, Alexia is an integral part of the team, contributing to the smooth running of the business and the success of its projects.
Tom Hanson joined AC AOV as a Contract Assistant in 2023 and moved up to Contracts Manager in 2024. Tom brings almost 10 years of experience in the fire protection and smoke ventilation industry. With a Master’s degree in Product Design, Tom combines technical expertise with a creative approach to problem-solving. He is dedicated to ensuring projects are delivered efficiently, safely, and to the highest standards of compliance – supporting AC AOV’s commitment to quality and reliability across every contract.
Stephen joined AC AOV in May 2024, bringing over 25 years of experience in fire engineering. Beginning his career on the tools, he has developed a comprehensive understanding of the sector, progressing through to director level where he successfully ran his own business before moving into his current role.
He specialises in the design and delivery of complex fire-engineered solutions, including mechanical smoke extract systems, car park smoke ventilation, and pressurisation systems. His strong technical expertise enables him to develop compliant and efficient solutions across a range of challenging environments.
He holds an SCQF Level 6 FireQual qualification, supporting his extensive practical experience with recognised industry accreditation.
Craig is the Managing Director of AC AOV Ltd, bringing over 20 years of experience in the smoke ventilation industry. Beginning his career as an apprentice engineer, he earned an HND in Electrical Engineering and advanced through senior and technical engineering roles before joining AC AOV in 2022. Progressing from Contracts Manager to Operations Director and now Managing Director, Craig leads his team with technical expertise, dedication and a commitment to excellence in providing smoke ventilation solutions to all clients.
With more than 30 years of hands‑on experience in smoke ventilation and AOV systems, David McCormack is one of the UK’s most seasoned specialists in the field. Now Managing Director of both AC AOV and Ventlux, he brings an electrical engineering background together with decades of site expertise across thousands of apartment blocks, schools, offices and hotels nationwide.
David’s portfolio includes work on some of the UK’s most prestigious and technically demanding environments. His project experience spans landmark venues such as the Royal Opera House, the British Museum, the Museum of London, Coca‑Cola London, Facebook London, HSBC Tower in Canary Wharf, Old Trafford, Wigan Athletic, the London School of Economics, Dakota Hotels (Leeds & Manchester), Brooklyn Hotel Manchester, and the majority of motorway service stations across the country. Alongside these flagship sites, he has delivered solutions for countless new‑build and existing residential developments.
In addition to leading two growing businesses, David teaches twice a month, sharing his knowledge with engineers, contractors and industry professionals. His commitment to raising standards in smoke ventilation design, installation and compliance has made him a trusted figure across the sector.
Mike is a Site Manager at AC Group and one of the company’s longest-serving employees, having joined the business at the age of 18 as an apprentice. Over the years, he has progressed through several roles, building extensive experience across site operations and electrical compliance.
Before moving into his current role, Mike was the Lead Qualified Supervisor, responsible for overseeing electrical compliance and the majority of testing across AC Group projects. His strong technical knowledge and attention to detail have made him a trusted point of reference for testing and quality standards within the business.
Mike now leads his own projects as a Site Manager within AC Group’s NHS department, delivering works across hospital and healthcare environments.
Known for both his in-depth knowledge of electrical testing and his good sense of humour on site, Mike brings a calm, approachable presence to complex projects, helping teams work effectively while maintaining high standards throughout delivery.
Tom Daly joined us in March of 2025, starting life as a joiner in 1990 before moving on to supervising of works and then establishing his own building company in 2004, after several successful years in business, then decided to move into site management. In 2010, Tom enrolled onto an HNC in construction project management at MANACAT before moving onto Salford University in pursuit of a Honorary degree in Project management. From University, Tom quickly moved into site project management, schemes in the value ranges of anywhere between £100,000 to circa £30,000,000.
In 20215 Tom went on and into Contract management though still site based, before seeking a more “multi” site, based career in Contract Management. Toms’ projects experiences are varied and cover most of the construction sectors, Retail, Residential and Commercial with other experiences within the public sector including the railway networks and now of course, Health care.
Tom’s current qualifications include, HNC, First Aid, SMSTS, NVQ in Customer Care, CSCS Manager, Tom seeks further betterment and is hoping to enrol into the MCIOB of contract management in the next 6 months.
Toms Experience – 30 years in the construction industry, 20 of which, within management.
Key Skills – Leadership, stake holder communication, Contract management.
Daniel Taylor is a dedicated project manager with a strong technical foundation built from the ground up. Beginning his career as an apprentice electrician, he progressed through site roles, installation work and project coordination before joining AC Group, where he now manages Electrical projects across the UK.
At 33, Daniel brings over a decade of practical experience to every job. His background on the tools gives him a rare ability to bridge the gap between design intent and real‑world installation, ensuring projects run smoothly, safely and in full compliance with industry standards.
Daniel is known for his polite, approachable manner and his natural ability to engage with customers, contractors and consultants alike. He’s calm under pressure, proactive in solving problems, and committed to delivering a positive experience for everyone involved in a project. His attention to detail, reliability and clear communication have made him a trusted point of contact across multiple sites.
Joe joined AC Group in 2009 as an apprentice whilst attending Tameside College and has remained with the company ever since. Over Joe’s 15+ year career at the company, he has progressively moved through various job roles such as apprentice, electrician, site manager and now currently works as Project Manager.
Over the years, Joe has worked on various electrical projects both small and large, and has vast experience in the healthcare, commercial, industrial & telecommunication sectors.
Joe was promoted to Project Manager in 2023 and holds the position of a NICEIC qualified supervisor for the company.
Craig is a Project Manager at AC Group, working primarily on healthcare and hospital projects. With over 20 years’ experience as a qualified electrician, he brings a strong practical background and a deep understanding of live healthcare environments.
Craig is predominantly site-based, overseeing day-to-day project delivery, coordinating site teams, and liaising closely with clients to ensure works are carried out safely and efficiently. His hands-on approach allows him to manage complex projects while maintaining high standards of quality and compliance.
Having been with AC Group for over 10 years, Craig has built a strong reputation for reliability and consistency across the company’s healthcare projects. His experience and calm, methodical approach play a key role in the successful delivery of works within sensitive clinical settings.
Kevin Ward leads the Networks Division, driving the design, implementation, and management of advanced network infrastructure solutions. Under his leadership, the division delivers end-to-end connectivity services, including structured cabling, fibre optics, LAN/WAN architecture, and wireless networking, tailored to meet the demands of modern enterprises and critical environments.
Kevin has extensive experience managing complex projects in healthcare settings, where reliability, compliance, and security are paramount. His strategic approach ensures that every solution is scalable, resilient, and aligned with industry standards, enabling clients to operate with confidence in highly regulated sectors.
As a hands-on leader, Kevin oversees a team of skilled engineers and technicians, fostering a culture of innovation, precision, and customer focus. He is committed to leveraging emerging technologies to enhance network performance and future-proof infrastructure, positioning the company as a trusted partner for organisations seeking robust connectivity solutions.
Keely Morris is the Office Manager, responsible for overseeing the company’s daily administrative and operational activities. Her role includes managing payroll and staff enquiries, coordinating annual leave requests, monitoring sickness and attendance, processing toolbox talks, booking training courses, handling expenses, and ensuring subcontractor insurance and accreditations are up to date. Keely plays a key role in maintaining efficient office operations and supporting both staff and management across all departments.
Keely began her career with the company in 2018 as an Administrator, where she developed a strong foundation in business administration. In 2022, she transitioned into the Accounts department, broadening her financial and operational knowledge. Her dedication, professionalism, and leadership led to her promotion to Office Manager in 2025.
Keely is recognised for her attention to detail, organisational skills, and commitment to ensuring the smooth running of the business.
Michael joined AC Group in 2021 as an Electrical Engineer, bringing a strong technical foundation, practical on-site experience, and a proactive approach to project delivery. Holding an IOSH Managing Safely certification, Michael quickly established himself as a dependable and safety-focused professional committed to delivering high-quality results. His dedication and leadership led to a promotion to Site Manager in October 2023, where he successfully managed major projects and maintained the highest standards of safety and quality.
In 2025, Michael progressed to his current role as Contracts Manager, taking on responsibility for overseeing multiple projects from planning through to completion. He leads on contract management, client relations, and project coordination – ensuring that every job is delivered efficiently, safely, and to the highest standard. Michael also holds City & Guilds 2391 Inspection and Testing and Qualified Supervisor (QS) status with the NICEIC, reinforcing his ongoing commitment to professional excellence and compliance.
Known for his hands-on approach and strategic mindset, Michael plays a key role in AC Group’s continued success – driving innovation, collaboration, and exceptional results across every project.
Michael joined AC Group in 2021 as an Electrical Engineer, bringing a strong technical foundation, practical on-site experience, and a proactive approach to project delivery. Holding an IOSH Managing Safely certification, Michael quickly established himself as a dependable and safety-focused professional committed to delivering high-quality results. His dedication and leadership led to a promotion to Site Manager in October 2023, where he successfully managed major projects and maintained the highest standards of safety and quality.
In 2025, Michael progressed to his current role as Contracts Manager, taking on responsibility for overseeing multiple projects from planning through to completion. He leads on contract management, client relations, and project coordination – ensuring that every job is delivered efficiently, safely, and to the highest standard. Michael also holds City & Guilds 2391 Inspection and Testing and Qualified Supervisor (QS) status with the NICEIC, reinforcing his ongoing commitment to professional excellence and compliance.
Known for his hands-on approach and strategic mindset, Michael plays a key role in AC Group’s continued success – driving innovation, collaboration, and exceptional results across every project.
Chris joined the team in late 2023 as Finance Manager.
Chris qualified as an Accountant with the ACCA in 2009.
Chris brings a wealth of knowledge from his time working in accountancy practices from a audit/tax point of view, and industry from a management accounts and cash management.
Vikki joined AC Group in 2022, bringing over 15 years of experience in office and business administration. Since then, she has played a key role in strengthening the organisation’s people function and operational foundations.
In 2024, Vikki achieved her CIPD qualification and transitioned into the role of HR Manager, where she now leads on people strategy, employee engagement, and organisational development. She is a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), reflecting her commitment to professional excellence and best practice.
Vikki has been instrumental in driving key business accreditations, including the achievement of ISO 45001 and Investors in People Silver, supporting AC Group’s ongoing commitment to high standards in health, safety, and workforce development.
As Contracts Manager, Bradley is responsible for overseeing the operational delivery of construction projects, ensuring that all works are executed efficiently, safely, and to the highest quality standards. He manages teams in their day-to-day duties, coordinating resources and planning material requirements to support seamless project execution. Bradley is also instrumental in developing and maintaining strong client relationships and works closely with subcontractors to ensure effective communication, collaboration, and project success.
Andy joined the company as Contracts Manager and was promoted to Operations Manager during our expansion due to his dedication and client centric approach, he’s previously undertaken full electrical project design utilising Amtech, Relux and AutoCAD.
With over 25 years’ experience in the construction industry ranging from multiblock apartment complexes, Cat A and B commercial fitouts, retail and hospitality, and over the last 4 years Andy has specialised in the healthcare sector including but not limited to emergency RAAC reroofing projects, reflooring schemes and infrastructure upgrades all in live hospitals.
Being extremely safety conscious Andy takes pride in the fact that in 15 years of supervisory experience in construction industry there have been zero RIDDOR incidents for those within his care, he takes pride in maintain a clean and safe working environment for all.
Dan is a seasoned Director with a strong engineering foundation and extensive experience in Electrical and Mechanical infrastructure, project coordination, procurement strategy, and financial oversight. His expertise spans the entire project lifecycle – from early-stage design and planning through tender evaluation, on-site execution, and stakeholder engagement.
He began his career at AC Group as a 16-year-old apprentice, steadily advancing through roles including Electrical Engineer, Site Manager, and Contracts Manager before being appointed Director. This progression is supported by a suite of professional qualifications, resulting in registration with the Institute of Engineering and Technology and The Engineering Council.
Dan is a passionate advocate of training and apprenticeships. Previously teaching students in his spare time at the very institute where he began his own training, reinforcing his commitment to industry development. He is currently completing the final years of his engineering degree, further demonstrating his dedication to continuous professional growth and advancement within the engineering profession.
Recognised for his hands-on leadership and collaborative approach, Dan remains actively engaged across all levels of operation. His experience, integrity, practical expertise, and attention to detail have earned him widespread respect and influence throughout the organisation.
Andrew has been a cornerstone of AC Group since joining the business in 2003 as part of the installation team. From the outset, he played a pivotal role in supporting the company’s early growth, contributing to the achievement of NICEIC Part P Installer status in 2004 and Approved Contractor accreditation in 2005.
Progressing through the business, Andrew was appointed Contracts Manager in 2012, where he successfully delivered a wide range of projects while building and maintaining strong client relationships across the sector. His hands-on experience, technical expertise, and commercial awareness have made him a trusted leader within the organisation.
In recognition of his long-standing contribution and leadership, Andrew was promoted to Associate Director in 2024. He continues to play a key role in driving project delivery standards, client satisfaction, and the ongoing growth of AC Group.
David is an experienced engineering leader with more than four decades in the electrical and construction industry. He began his career in 1983 with a four-year apprenticeship in Ashton-under-Lyne before moving to A Andrews & Co Ltd in 1988, progressing from electrician to site manager and later Contracts Manager. He completed his 2391 Inspection & Testing qualification in 1997.
David joined AC Group in 2006, initially working on-site before transitioning into the office as the business expanded. He was instrumental in implementing Simpro across the organisation, enabling fully digital project and financial workflows.
As Commercial Director, David oversees customer relationships, tender management, staff development, technical support, quality control, and the continued improvement of operational standards.
Anthony is a commercially focused leader with a career spanning financial services, high-value legal operations and construction. He spent several years at a well-established city centre law firm, where he developed a strong grounding in regulatory compliance, commercial strategy and operational delivery.
His career has been defined by an ability to identify opportunities, streamline complex processes, and drive measurable commercial performance. Anthony has managed substantial budgets, led negotiations, and overseen diverse revenue streams while maintaining a rigorous focus on cost control, risk management, and long-term value creation.
In his current role, he applies this breadth of experience to lead the commercial function of the business, shaping procurement strategy, contractual oversight, and financial performance across projects. Anthony holds an HNC in Quantity Surveying and is currently undertaking a Business and Management Practice (BA Hons) degree.
