Summary
AEW Architects, one of the largest North West architectural practices, has completed a management buy-out led by managing director Andy Rainford. Existing shareholders Rainford, Alan Lamb and Phil Hepworth are joined by Alex Southall, Danielle Purves and Mark Turner as new shareholders. The move follows turnover exceeding £9.3m for the first time and marks the next stage in the firm's succession strategy as director Colin Savage transitions from the business.
The practice has promoted Peter Bartley, head of sustainability, to board director, and associate directors Jonathan Sheridan and Meg Wood in recognition of their performance. The firm employs 105 people and has grown its headcount by almost 70% since Rainford and Savage assumed leadership in 2020. AEW has achieved B Corp accreditation and been named a Sunday Times Best Place to Work for four consecutive years.
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Common questions
- What is this article about?
- Manchester-based architectural practice AEW Architects has completed a management buy-out led by managing director Andy Rainford, following a record year. The firm has promoted six staff to shareholder or director level as part of a succession strategy.
- When was this published?
- This article was published on 20 October 2026.
- Who published this article?
- This article was published by Business Manchester.