John Bullivant - Chief Executive, Ocean Group

Although it was John’s father, also John Bullivant, who established Ocean in 1973 it was made very clear from the start that there would be no easy route to the top of the company tree.

John’s school holidays were spent gaining frontline experience as a cleaner, which eventually helped fund his higher education. After working as an auditor in London John described his return to Ocean in 1991 as a great privilege and wasted no time in putting his leadership skills to work as an Area Manager.

 
Now, more than 15 years on, John says he believes more strongly than ever in Ocean’s ability to provide top quality service for our customers; a belief that is reflected in his dedication to the company and the enthusiasm of his staff.
 
During his time with Ocean the management team has developed organically, bringing a rich mixture of characters and management styles into the fold. This diversity is something John actively encourages as it has proved to be a key element in Ocean’s ability to develop new ideas and initiatives.

 
When asked to describe the best thing about his leadership role at Ocean, John said: “The rewards gained from the patience and effort spent nurturing new staff to be reliable and good team players is the most exciting and rewarding aspect.

“Our management of cleaning is what makes us good. It is our follow through and commitment that makes us great. But without our personnel, selected for and trained in the tasks that they perform, we would not succeed.”