Specialist industrial services provider F.E.S. (EX) is celebrating 20 years in business as it continues to build its team.
The hazardous area consultancy and electrical contractor was launched by Geoff Fulcher in 2005, with the founder now sitting as chair of a 50-strong firm turning over more than £5 million.
Managing Director James Ward, Commercial Director Elle Fulcher-Fenty, and Finance Director Martin Jackson make up the senior leadership team. The company is now eyeing future industrial markets as it builds on its widening offering across installation, engineering, inspection, and process safety disciplines.
“I never envisaged it would become this,” says Geoff. “I could perhaps see six or seven of us being the team, but when Martin (Jackson) came on board there was a realisation of what could be achieved, and we grew from there.
“We pride ourselves on the personal service, and when it comes to business, we thrive when that approach is taken by both sides.
“One of the biggest highlights for me has been watching how people have come into the company, and really grown. I’ve seen it with ‘newbies,’ experienced hires, and with family members [Elle is his daughter] – and for all of them to come in and care for the company in the same way as I do, has been tremendous. I say a big thank you to them for that.”
F.E.S. (EX) was launched after a period working in contracting management and consultancy, having initially served as an apprentice marine electrician.
Launched from a tiny, windowless office in Cleethorpes Business Centre, it grew in the managed workspace before branching out to its own substantial unit on the Wilton Road Industrial Estate.
Roxby Training Services was acquired a decade ago, including Humber and Teesside bases, with F.E.S. (EX) then launching another office in Saltend, near Hull, to serve the North Humber Bank, then adding a North East hub too.
Third party audit support has emerged as a key revenue stream for the company, supporting leaner client teams to deliver at vital of times to meet regulations or address issues.
Elle said there was “immense pride” in the client base with heavy industrial/manufacturing, energy, water, and defence all key sectors.
A recent win for the company has been with the world’s largest wind turbine monopile factory on the Tees, with the business completing a hazardous area installation for spray booths. Fuel storage distribution, anaerobic digestion, and fibre production are all ongoing.
Additionally, while the business specialises in process industry settings, it has also worked in Formula One and the cruise ship industry.
“Looking to the future, the likes of carbon capture and hydrogen are going to be increasingly important, and we have the technical capability to deliver on that too,” comments Elle.
James adds, “We’ve seen industry come back stronger from Covid, and we’re seeking to make continuous improvements, ensuring we have the right procedures in place so we can confidently keep growing and looking forward.”