About: Frank is the Site manager at the Laboratory. He is a Chartered Engineer and Facilities Professional with over 30 years of leadership across the academic, pharmaceutical, and food sectors. Since 2014, he has led the transformation of the Brixham Laboratory into a vibrant, multi-tenanted science park for the University of Plymouth. Under his guidance, the site now hosts 25 businesses, employs over 200 local professionals, and operates at 98%+ occupancy.

Background: Frank holds a BEng (Hons) from University College Dublin and is a Chartered Member of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (MIMechE). His career spans senior engineering and leadership roles at AstraZeneca, Unilever, and RHM Foods, where he delivered multi-million-pound infrastructure projects, led major cultural change initiatives, and ensured sustained regulatory compliance.

Fun Fact: When he’s not leading teams or overseeing strategic projects, Frank enjoys life’s simpler pleasures — a competitive game of tennis, a day at the races, and winding down with a perfect pint of Guinness.

About: John has served as the Site Engineer since the University of Plymouth acquired the building in 2014. He plays a vital role in ensuring daily operations run safely, efficiently, and without interruption. From managing ongoing maintenance to responding to urgent repairs, John’s work is essential to the building’s functioning.

Background: Prior to the University taking on the building, John was based here at the laboratory working for AstraZeneca, with nearly 3 decades of experience in facilities management and site engineering. John is also a fully qualified heating and plumbing engineer. His hands-on technical knowledge strengthens his ability to manage the building’s mechanical systems and infrastructure. Since the building’s acquisition, John has developed a deep understanding of its operations, making him a go-to expert for both immediate support and long-term planning.

Fun Fact: When he’s not on-site, John enjoys spending time at the beach with his family. Whether it’s swimming, soaking up the sun, or enjoying family time by the water, the beach is their favourite escape.

About: Daniel oversees the coordination of engineering operations on site, ensuring everything remains compliant and runs smoothly and efficiently.

Background: With a strong foundation in maritime operations and a passion for people, Daniel brings a unique blend of technical expertise and interpersonal insight to his role as Site Engineering Co-ordinator. Starting his career with the local Fisheries Protection Service in Devon, Daniel earned an NVQ in Merchant Vessel Support at 21 years of age. Alongside this, he pursued his interest in mental health and wellbeing, achieving a high-level diploma in Therapeutic Counselling.

Fun fact: Daniel lives in Torbay with his wife and five energetic boys—life at home is just as lively as life on site!

About: Esme is responsible for the administrative and financial operations at Brixham Laboratory, keeping day-to-day operations organised and running well. Esme handles external bookings for our hired spaces, office rental and all general enquires. She works closely with tenants to make sure they have everything they need, however it’s no ordinary desk job she offers support wherever required, this brings a broad, hands-on knowledge of the site to her role.

Background: Esme’s background is in healthcare, having started her career as a healthcare assistant at a local hospital before moving into various administrative positions within the hospital, including booking clerk, receptionist, and outpatient administrator.

Fun fact: Esme never planned to live in Brixham—not only does she live there, but she also works there. A true Brixham convert, she loves the charm of the coastal town and feels incredibly lucky to enjoy a sea view from her desk.