CEO, Ultimate (Commercial Interiors) Ltd
Dan graduated from The University of Huddersfield with a BA (Hons) in Architectural Interior Design. In his early/mid 20’s, Dan gained comprehensive experience across the interiors sector, which included serving time with organisation such as Design & Build Fit Out & Refurbishment Contractor, Furniture Dealership, and a large £100M turnover manufacturer of interior products. During this time he developed his skills and experience in Design, Sales, Estimating, Contracts & Project Management, Health & Safety Management, Accounts, and Marketing.
In 2002, Dan supported the founding of Ultimate (Commercial Interiors) Ltd by Mark Hickey and Mark Naisbitt. By 2007, he joined them, helping grow Ultimate into a renowned Award Winning Design & Build, Fit Out, Refurbishment, and Furniture Specialist, now with a turnover exceeding £20M and projects across the UK from four regional offices.
In recent years, Dan and his team have reinvested significantly back into the business and built a state-of-the-art facility in the heart of Yorkshire known as ‘The Hive.’ This facility is a 16,000 sq. ft. award-winning Interiors Experience Centre, unique in the UK.
The tours offered at The Hive focus on space utilisation and provide clients the opportunity to experience various work settings that promote thriving workplaces. Everything at The Hive has been created to demonstrate Ultimate’s execution in workplace design and delivery, including fixtures, fittings, and products from over 100 industry-leading manufacturers. The Hive is a resource for those developing a project or wanting to experience the products firsthand. It is also specifically designed as a resource for the A&D community and all property professionals. For end-users embarking on a relocation or refurbishment, The Hive is a must-visit destination before starting a project.
In May 2023, Dan led a management buyout of Ultimate, becoming CEO, and forming a new leadership team with five directors. Under his leadership, Ultimate has gained prestigious clients such as Bettys & Taylors, Pepsico, BUPA, and The National Trust. Most recently, Ultimate was awarded Yorkshire Business of the Year 2024 and a spot on The Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024.
Dan attributes Ultimate’s success to repeat business and recommendations, aligning with the company’s vision: “To be the UK’s most recommended partner for Interior Fit Out & Furniture.”
Skills that could be useful to other business owners:
Construction and Property
Leisure
Property
Bringing the best out of people
Building teams
Business Planning
Fast Growth
Leadership
Management Skills
Marketing
Merger and Acquisition
Negotiation
Project Management
Sales
Strategy
