The former boss of a historic West Country construction company has died at the age of 91. Alan Beard, who only retired from Swindon-based Beard in 2021, had worked for the company for 70 years.
Mr Beard joined the business in January 1950, aged 17, when the firm was led by his father, Geoffrey. He became Beard’s managing director in 1971 - then the third-generation family member at the helm.
He steered the company, which has offices in Swindon, Bristol, Oxford and Southampton, through various economic and political challenges, while growing turnover to £200m.
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Former Beard non-executive director Chad Murrin, who has known the family since the early 1980s, said: “Alan was a highly respected figure, in the construction and property sectors and in his private and social life.
“As head of the company, Alan resolutely appointed apprentices and mentored them as they progressed their careers within Beard and the wider construction industry. He was ahead of his time in his approach to developing technically competent construction managers. He led and then supported a very successful well-respected business. I was very sorry to hear of his passing.”
'A true professional'
Professor Roger Flanagan, former president of the Chartered Institute of Building, added: “Alan Beard was a true professional. He was caring and helped many people on their career path. He was humble and concerned for other people. His legacy is a beacon for others to follow; always do your best and exceed your own and the client’s expectations. He will be sadly missed.”
Beard Construction was founded by Mr Beard's grandfather, Edward William Beard, who worked until he was 103.
Under Mr Alan Beard's stewardship, the company completed numerous high-profile projects including the Bishop Edward King Chapel at Cuddesdon, which was the Sterling Prize runner up in 2013.
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He also oversaw Beard’s growth in the education sector, delivering contracts for schools including Eton, Marlborough and Wellington Colleges, as well as several projects for the University of Oxford.
Outside of work, he was involved in his community, part of the Rotary International and an active member of the local church. Mr Beard is survived by his wife, Eileen; sons Mark and John; six grandchildren; and a great-grandchild.
The funeral and celebration of Alan’s life will be held on Friday, August 23. For further details please email sharon.brace@beardconstruction.co.uk.