Risk Management in Property Management

By: Premier Estates

August 4, 2025

Our Risk Management Team: Keeping Property, People and Standards Safe

Effective risk management in property management goes beyond day-to-day operations. It’s about safeguarding people, places, and peace of mind. That’s why we’re proud to shine a light on the skills and expertise of our dedicated Risk Management Team. Their work plays a vital role in ensuring our buildings are not only compliant but consistently safe and well-managed.

Meet the Team

At the forefront of our approach is Patrick Ward, Director of Operations (Risk)

Patrick plays a key strategic role in supporting the Risk Management Team and embedding its importance throughout our business. He understands the impact that strong risk management has, not only in protecting people and property, but in empowering teams to operate confidently and effectively. In addition to his leadership, Patrick also sits on the Board of The Property Institute, helping shape the wider industry to promote best practice across the sector.

Operational Director (Risk)

Leading with expertise – Colin Whalley, Head of Risk Management

Colin Whalley, our Head of the Risk Management, brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to developing both his team and the industry. As a highly motivated Chartered Health and Safety and fire professional, Colin has a proven track record in delivering top-tier auditing, training, instruction, and assessments. He is deeply respected for his expertise, supported by a wide range of industry qualifications, including:

Colin also contributes to the profession by serving on the Institute of Fire Engineers member application assessment panel, helping to uphold high standards for fire safety professionals. His leadership ensures that our team remains at the forefront of safety, compliance, and professional development.

At the core of compliance, meet John, our Technical Manager

John plays a key role as Technical Manager. He supports high-rise developments and internal teams on complex compliance matters, contractor audits, and fire-related investigations. John brings specialist expertise in the Heat Networks (Metering and Billing) Regulations and Ofgem guidance, having successfully registered multiple heat networks and provided ongoing regulatory support to operational teams. John applies the Plan-Do-Check-Act methodology to ensure risk assessments, investigations, and compliance processes are structured, consistent, and understood across the business. He also helps maintain robust operational standards by working closely with fire safety and risk professionals. His work contributes to safer, well-managed buildings, giving our customers peace of mind in the safety and integrity of their homes.

Driving organisation and efficiency, Rhianne, Risk Management Coordinator

Rhianne brings a diverse and people-focused background to her role with excellent communication skills, a strong work ethic, and adaptability. Naturally organised with a keen eye for detail, Rhianne has found a genuine passion for risk management. Recognising that risk touches all aspects of everyday life. She takes pride in helping to keep people safe and ensuring operations run smoothly behind the scenes, making her an invaluable part of the team.

Enhancing processes, Colleen, Assets Administrator

Colleen plays a vital role in supporting the team by streamlining compliance and safety processes. This includes managing documentation and enhancing collaboration through automation and clear communication. With a First-Class Honours Degree in Cyber Security and a CDP Certification in Lithium-Ion Batteries, she brings both technical insight and innovation to her work. Ensuring everything stays aligned with legal and regulatory standards.

Completing the team is Scott, Risk Manager and Chartered Member of IOSH

Scott oversees contractor onboarding to ensure due diligence and competency. He leads and supports serious incident investigations to identify root causes and mitigate risk and manages regulatory reporting through RIDDOR and Mandatory Occurrence Reporting (MOR). He regularly liaises with local authorities, conducts fresh-perspective site inspections, and keeps the business updated on legislative changes. Scott also provides expert guidance to clients on safety-related matters, making him an essential part of maintaining operational standards.

Together, this team embodies our commitment to excellence. Their collective expertise not only ensures compliance but also drives continuous improvement. Creating safer environments for our residents, clients, and communities. Find out more about how our Risk Management Team works.