Technical Manager Jacob Knowles’ progression at Caxton Façades
(L-R) Jacob pictured with Maks Machczynski, Apprentice Façades Technician.
At Caxton Façades, investing in people is at the core of our culture. Jacob Knowles’ career journey is a great example of how dedication, opportunity and continuous professional development can create exciting progression opportunities within the business.
Since joining Caxton Façades in 2023, Jacob has progressed through several key roles, developing his technical knowledge, leadership skills and regulatory expertise.
Building a career in façades
Before joining Caxton Façades, Jacob spent seven years working in joinery. Looking for a new challenge, he joined the business as a Trainee Site Supervisor, working on The Bath House and The Holloway for Winvic Construction, both significant projects in Birmingham city centre.
Shortly after, Jacob was appointed Site Supervisor at EdCity, White City, London, working with valued client Bowmer + Kirkland where he began training as a Technical Supervisor under the guidance of Technical Manager, Mark Render.
By September 2023, Jacob had progressed into a Technical Supervisor role at Soho Yard, Sheffield (pictured below), one of the company’s flagship projects for Bowmer + Kirkland. Over the following year, he continued to develop his skills in complex façade systems, compliance requirements and project delivery.
Taking the next step
In January 2025, Jacob was promoted to Technical Manager and played a key role in the development of the Alperton Bus Garage redevelopment in London for Telford Homes (pictured below). Comprising two towers rising to 24 and 28 storeys, Alperton is the largest project undertaken by Caxton Façades to date, with the team installing approximately 24,000m² of STOFIX brick slip façade.
The role marked a significant step forward in Jacob’s career, requiring him to oversee technical compliance, installation quality and project delivery on a major urban residential development.
As his experience continued to grow, so did his responsibilities. Since January 2026, Jacob has played a key role in supporting the submission process for four Building Safety Regulator (BSR) schemes running concurrently. This involves ensuring that selected systems for installation meet the latest regulatory requirements while maintaining compliance and installation standards across multiple live projects.
Investing in development
Alongside his project responsibilities, Jacob has completed a wide range of training courses and professional development programmes.
His training has included:
- SSSTS
- First Aid and Mental Health First Aid
- Mobile elevating work platform training
- Operational and site-based qualifications
- Leadership development training
He is also currently exploring further professional development opportunities, including postgraduate study and an MSc Façade engineering qualification.
In addition to formal training, Jacob attends regular one-to-one coaching sessions with Caxton Group Operations Director Scott Millington, focusing on personal development, leadership and career progression.
A culture of growth
Reflecting on his journey so far, Jacob believes the support and opportunities available at Caxton have played a significant role in his development.
“Throughout my various roles, I have been supported by Caxton via ongoing training and professional development. The opportunities I’ve been given, alongside the support from colleagues and management, have helped me continue progressing both professionally and personally. The one-to-one coaching and development support I receive is invaluable and directly reflects the company’s commitment to employee growth. At Caxton, every individual is respected and given the freedom to grow professionally.”
Scott Millington, Group Operations Director at Caxton Group and Jacob’s mentor, said:
“Jacob’s progression over the past three years has been exceptional. He’s consistently shown a willingness to learn, take on new challenges and step outside his comfort zone. His commitment to developing both his technical knowledge and leadership skills has allowed him to progress through the business.
We’re proud to support ambitious individuals like Jacob and provide opportunities for them to build long-term careers within the company. His journey demonstrates what can be achieved when talent, hard work and the right support come together.”
Looking ahead
As the construction industry continues to evolve, particularly in response to increasing regulatory requirements and building safety standards, developing the next generation of technical leaders remains a key priority for Caxton Façades.
Jacob’s journey from Trainee Site Supervisor to Technical Manager demonstrates the opportunities available within the business and highlights the company’s commitment to nurturing talent, supporting professional development and helping employees achieve their career ambitions.
Would you like to join our growing team? Visit our recruitment page.
