How did you get into the lift industry?
I fell into the lift industry shortly after leaving the University of Newcastle. After studying Mechanical Engineering I worked for a medical devices design company but decided it wasn’t for me and accepted a position with Kone in their lift design department in Leeds. At that time there were standard design new products available, but the majority of lifts were designed from the ground up from the various subcomponents and doing design calculations by hand. Since then I’ve progressed through almost every element of the industry.
What drives you?
I like to improve things and help people! Whether that’s helping solve peoples challenges, or identifying things which could be themselves improved. I find the lift and escalator industry incredibly varied which keeps it really interesting for me.
What could you talk about for hours without getting bored?
Anyone who has read my blogs will realise that I have an interest in standards and regulations, and particularly in lift equipment to assist the fire service or in evacuation. As quite a complex topic, which is often not understood fully, I think it engages my curiosity to learn and drive to help people understand. Graham leads Cundall’s Vertical Transportation team, bringing extensive experience across all sectors, specialising in safety, compliance, refurbishment strategy, and independent advice throughout the lifecycle of lift and escalator assets.
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Graham’s advice to those seeking VT consultancy:
Independent advice is key to making informed decisions that protect both people and long-term asset value.
Graham Barker
Partner, Cundall