Our People
Our management team brings together extensive industry experience, technical expertise, and strong leadership across all areas of the business.
Through a client-focused approach they provide the direction, knowledge and support that drives successful project delivery and long-term relationships.
David Kirkwood
Chairman
David is Chairman of Thomson Bethune and has over 40 years’ experience in the construction industry. He has successfully delivered numerous projects across multiple sectors for some of the company’s largest clients.
His extensive industry knowledge and long-standing leadership skills allow him to support the Board of Directors in making sound strategic decisions, maintaining effective governance and securing the continued success of the business.
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Lee Holness
Managing Director
Lee has been an integral part of Thomson Bethune since joining the company in 1997. Appointed Director in 2019, he became Managing Director in 2026 and now leads the business with a strong focus on quality, collaboration and sustainable growth.
Lee combines strategic insight, commercial expertise and meticulous attention to detail. His tailored cost management solutions safeguard clients’ interests, support confident decision-making and deliver lasting value.
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Findlay Stewart
Director
A Chartered Building Surveyor with over 25 years’ experience, he has successfully delivered building surveying, project management and technical advisory services across the healthcare, local authority and social housing sectors.
Drawing on his multidisciplinary background, Findlay combines strong technical expertise with a practical, solution-focused approach. He provides effective problem-solving and proactive support, delivering tailored solutions that meet each client’s specific requirements.
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Brian Fraser
Director
Brian’s career with Thomson Bethune began in 1996 when he joined as a Graduate Surveyor. After gaining wider industry experience, he returned to the company in 2024 and was appointed Director in 2025.
With extensive cross-sector expertise, Brian combines commercial insight, robust cost control and proactive collaboration to deliver successful projects. He provides clients with clear, dependable advice across cost planning, procurement and contract management, bringing confidence and clarity to even the most complex commissions.
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Neil Lyus
Technical Director
As a Quantity Surveyor and Project Manager, Neil brings both commercial and delivery perspectives to every commission. Having worked on a wide range of construction projects across the UK, he has developed extensive and varied experience.
His broad industry knowledge allows him to identify potential issues early, balance competing priorities and keep projects moving forward. From cost planning and procurement to contract administration and completion, Neil offers practical direction that helps clients retain control and make confident decisions.
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Andrew Patton
Associate Director
With more than 30 years’ experience across the public and private sectors, Andrew is a highly respected Chartered Quantity Surveyor known for his pragmatic approach and strong commercial insight.
Combining technical expertise with a collaborative working style, he quickly understands each client’s priorities and translates complex challenges into clear, practical solutions. His considered advice and commitment to quality help clients make confident decisions, maintain effective cost control and achieve successful project outcomes.
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Gayle Paris
Senior Associate
Gayle is an accomplished Chartered Quantity Surveyor with experience across a diverse portfolio, ranging from major education and research facilities to nationwide retail programmes.
Her methodical approach, attention to detail and proactive management bring clarity and confidence to every stage of a project. Combining strong sector knowledge with a clear understanding of client priorities, Gayle provides dependable advice focused on achieving successful outcomes.
She also contributes to the company’s APC training programme, supporting and mentoring surveyors as they work towards chartership.
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Malcolm Notman
Associate
Since joining Thomson Bethune in 2015, Malcolm has developed into a key member of the team and serves as both an Associate and a Chartered Surveyor.
Malcolm understands that successful cost management relies on clear communication as much as commercial expertise. He takes ownership of each commission, identifying risks early, keeping key decisions on track and coordinating closely with the wider project team. His steady oversight provides clients with continuity and confidence from initial cost planning through to completion and final account.
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Lauren McGugan
Associate
Lauren is a Chartered Building Surveyor with extensive experience across the property and construction sectors. Her expertise includes building pathology, condition assessment, defect diagnosis, contract administration and refurbishment works.
Known for her sound judgement and solution-focused approach, Lauren provides clear, practical advice that helps clients make informed decisions. She also plays a key role in leading the Building Surveying team, championing quality, guiding technical delivery and mentoring the next generation of building surveyors.
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Debbie McShane
Business Manager
Debbie oversees the day-to-day business operations at Thomson Bethune, managing a wide range of responsibilities that ensure the company runs smoothly and efficiently. With over 20 years’ experience in the construction industry, she supports the Directors through strategic planning and operational management, helping to drive continuous improvement across the business.
As a Chartered Marketer, Debbie also plays a key role in shaping the company’s marketing strategy and contributing to its business development activities.
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