A Q&A with MD Matthew Parsons and Projects Director Mark Skilbeck

Matt, looking back at this year, what were the most significant achievements for Open Contracts?

For me, the biggest achievement has been the continued success in delivering some brilliant projects for both new and existing clients in a collaborative, caring and safe manner.

In addition to this we have welcomed two new members into our project management team – Samit and Georgia – as part of our ongoing growth.

If you had to describe this year in one word, what would it be and why?

Exciting. As Mark and I adapt and learn our new roles and responsibilities, it has only reminded me of what a brilliant team of people we have within Open and this has enhanced my belief of an incredibly exciting future ahead.

What does 2026 hold for you and the team at Open Contracts?

We have some exciting projects in the pipeline that we are all looking forward to getting stuck into.

We’ve also set ourselves a company challenge of raising £25,000 for charity during our 25th year in business, which will be both fun and rewarding – watch this space!

Open went through a brand refresh this year. What drove that decision and what do you feel it communicates?

At Open we do not believe in standing still. We’re always looking at ways to improve and adapt whilst trying to keep things simple at the same time. I think this is reflected well in the new brand.

How will you be spending this festive holiday?

I will be at home spending time with my family including my one-year-old daughter, Ava. I am looking forward to enjoying the break!

Mark, stepping up as Projects Director must have been rewarding but also a challenge, how has your role changed from Project Manager?

We are still going through a transitional period of change, so as well as having my own projects my new role entails me having an overview of our running contracts, heading up and overseeing Health and Safety and – along with Matthew – managing the day to day business.

What new projects were completed this year that you are most proud of?

I wouldn’t say there was a particular standout project but we have completed some great warehouse projects where there has been huge transformation of run down, out dated and undesirable sheds (as we lovingly name them).

We have stripped back to shell and core, installed new roofs, plus full modern mechanical and electrical systems including PVs and EVs, and completed full internal and external refurbishments; breathing new life into the properties, making them completely unrecognisable and definitely something to be proud of.

What do you see are the biggest challenges and opportunities in the industry right now?

One of the challenges we face is the regulatory compliance particularly around the High-Risk Building regulations and although we don’t undertake regular works that are affected directly by HRB, the regulations represent a significant shift in building safety management and changes to the Building Control regime for non HRB also.

This has seen changes like new duty holder responsibilities in commissioning, design and construction and new requirements for information and notifications to be provided to Building Control throughout the construction project.

Although this has represented challenges while the changes have come into effect, it has also provided us with new learning opportunities to ensure we are fully compliant and understand our responsibilities.

What can clients expect from Open Contracts as you move into the New Year?

We have built a strong reputation as being a trustworthy, reliable and helpful contractor over the years and have had great feedback confirming this. So, I would say that our clients can expect more of the same and better, as we grow and build our capacity within the company and form stronger existing and new client relationships.

How will you celebrate the festive season?

It’s probably a clichéd answer but this year it will be spent catching up with family and friends and, after a very busy year, some well deserved relaxation and rest.