Lucion Services has announced two significant leadership appointments as part of a strategic restructure designed to drive further growth.
Following significant business growth within our specialist asbestos testing and inspection company, Lucion Services Ltd, we are pleased to announce Neil Smethurst as our new National Operations Director for Lucion Services, whilst Rich Murphy steps up from Senior Account Manager to Sales Director, reflecting the company’s ambitious growth strategy and commitment to operational excellence.
Neil Smethurst Appointed National Operations Director
In his new role, Neil Smethurst will oversee all UK regions, the Sellafield team, and Irish operations, with a focus on driving consistency and fostering greater collaboration across the organisation.
Neil has been instrumental in championing operational KPIs, including utilisation measures and On Time Delivery (OTD) metrics, which have had a demonstrable impact on business performance. His appointment comes at a pivotal time for Lucion Services, which has secured £13.5 million in bid wins during 2025 and continues to strengthen its position as a UK leading provider of hazardous materials management services.
Phil Coles, Chief Executive Officer at Lucion, commented:
“Neil’s promotion recognises his outstanding contribution to operational excellence across our business. His focus on driving consistency and collaboration has been instrumental in our recent success, and I’m confident he will continue to strengthen our position as we enter an ambitious period of growth.”
Rich Murphy Promoted to Sales Director
Rich Murphy’s appointment as Sales Director recognises his exceptional track record in growing account portfolios and consistently identifying and winning major opportunities beyond his remit.
With over 10 years’ experience in asbestos consultancy, Rich will focus on driving strategic growth through the conversion of high-value clients and securing large, complex project opportunities.
Ben Allison, Chief Commercial Officer at Lucion, commented:
“Rich has consistently demonstrated exceptional commercial acumen and an ability to identify and secure opportunities that drive real value for our business. His promotion to Sales Director is well-deserved recognition of his contribution to our growth, and I look forward to seeing him build on this success as we capitalise on the significant market opportunities ahead.”
Investing in Our People
These promotions reflect Lucion’s commitment to recognising and rewarding outstanding performance whilst building the leadership capability needed to support continued growth.
Both appointments ensure we have the right leadership structure in place to capitalise on market opportunities whilst maintaining the operational excellence our clients expect. By promoting from within, we’re investing in the talent that knows our business, understands our culture, and has already proven their ability to deliver results.
2026 will be an ambitious year of organic growth, not just for Lucion Services but for our wider group of companies. Our business has the right people, plans and processes to deliver in the markets we operate in, and we are excited to see Lucion Group continue to go from strength to strength.
As we continue to expand, we’re always looking for talented professionals who share our commitment to excellence. Explore career opportunities with Lucion Services and discover how you can be part of our success story.
