Feature Interview: A Morning with Ricky Whiteman, Maylim’s New Head of Pre-Construction – Midlands & North
There’s a certain energy in the Chesterfield office this morning, the kind that comes when someone new arrives with a story worth telling. We’ve spent the day catching up with Ricky Whiteman, Maylim’s newly appointed Head of Pre-Construction – Midlands & North, whose role will strengthen our presence across the wider UK and deepen our expertise in early‑stage project strategy.
Ricky has the grounded confidence of someone who has grown through the industry from the soil up, quite literally. His journey is rooted in horticulture, shaped by hands‑on experience, and refined through senior leadership across the landscaping and external‑works sector. Today, we sat down with him for a conversation that felt less like an introduction and more like a glimpse into the mindset of someone who genuinely loves what he does.
“We’re delighted to welcome Ricky Whiteman to Maylim as Head of Pre-Construction – Midlands & North.
As we continue to expand across the Midlands and North, attracting the very best people remains central to our growth strategy. Ricky brings extensive experience in pre-construction, strategic bidding and client engagement, adding further strength to our leadership team as we build on an exciting pipeline of opportunities.
His appointment reinforces our commitment to investing in regional talent, developing long-term client partnerships and delivering exceptional public realm, landscaping and civil engineering projects that leave a lasting legacy.” Liam Hawkins, MD.
Where it all began
Firstly Ricky, welcome to Maylim. Please tell us a bit about where you’ve come from through the ranks in our industry.
“My passion for horticulture and landscaping started when I was young, my Grandad was a keen gardener, and I spent my school holidays helping him. I realised that this was something that I wanted to pursue a career in, so after studying at Askham Bryan College, I started my own landscaping business. After a few years, I wanted to take my practical knowledge and apply it to a more commercial environment, and I secured a role as trainee estimator at Grace Landscapes. Over time I progressed through the business to Head of Estimating North, before joining Maylim as Head of Pre-Construction, North & Midlands.”
There’s a quiet pride in the way Ricky talks about his beginnings, not as a corporate origin story, but as a craft learned through family, curiosity and graft. It’s the kind of foundation that shapes leaders who never lose sight of the work on the ground.
Projects that shaped him
What projects have you been in where you’ve felt particularly proud?
“I have been involved in some really exciting projects, but the ones that really stick out for me are where the project has totally regenerated the area. I think my proudest achievements are receiving BALI Principal Awards for Boys Garden at the National Memorial Arboretum, Teeside Shopping Park and Monk Bridge Development, Leeds. Other notable projects to mention being Fairfax Manchester, Phase 1 of York Central, Queens Gardens, Hull and Stockton Waterfront.”
Ricky’s portfolio reads like a map of transformative public‑realm work. His pride isn’t in the accolades alone, but in the impact these spaces have on the people who use them. Very Maylim.
A vision for pre‑construction excellence
What excites you about your new role at Maylim? What are you here to do — and what’s your vision for pre‑construction excellence?
“I am excited to be working for an organisation that shares my passion for landscaping. When I visited the Coal Drops Yard and Grosvenor Square projects and spoke to colleagues, there was a genuine buzz of excitement to deliver high quality which demonstrated to me a team that truly care. On a personal development level, I am excited to learn new aspects to external works, as my experience is predominately in hard and soft landscaping.
My vision is to create strong relationships with our suppliers, clients and supply chains, to ensure we go the extra mile delivering fantastic projects that make a difference to the local landscape.”
There’s something refreshing about Ricky’s approach, a blend of ambition, humility and a clear desire to build relationships that elevate the work. His focus on collaboration feels perfectly aligned with the Maylim Way.
Leadership, Yorkshire‑style
How would you describe your leadership style?
“I am an enthusiastic, straight talking Yorkshire man; openness and integrity, I believe, are critical for building successful relationships. If I see a problem, I like to think outside of the box and encourage my team to do the same, collaborating by listening and learning from one another to get the best result.”
It’s hard not to smile at this answer, it’s honest, warm and unmistakably Ricky. A leadership style built on clarity, integrity and creativity.
Life outside the office
What keeps you busy outside of work?
“Outside of work, I love eating out and trying new restaurants. We are a rugby league mad family; my son and stepchildren all play amateur rugby, so weekends are pretty busy supporting them. I also enjoy walking and the gym and spending time with the family.”
A life full of food, family, sport and fresh air, the kind of balance that keeps perspective sharp and energy high.
“We’re excited to have Ricky on board and look forward to the impact he’ll make as we continue to grow.” Liam Hawkins, MD.