After gaining an economics degree at Leicester University, Richard obtained an ACMA Accounting Qualification while working for the Ford Motor Company. After working for Ford in a number of marketing and finance positions, he moved to ICL (International Computers Ltd) at their head office in Putney, working in the Corporate Finance and Treasury Departments. His involvement in the construction industry started in the early 1980s while still at ICL, and has continued since then.  

At Sandwood, Richard is the co-owner and Finance Director, responsible for IT and the surveying areas of the business, as well as managing the Original Features subsidiary. Richard has led the company's progress towards collaboration and partnering including the company Green House Project, and partnering agreements with the Peabody Trust, Servite Houses, Origin Group and Community Housing. He was instrumental in the company achieving and renewing the Investors in People Standard.

His own recent training has included a distance learning Business Coaching Course from Newcastle University.

Outside work, Richard volunteers as the treasurer of the Enfield Racial Equality Council.