As Managing Partner of SHW, Russell Markham chairs the firm’s Management Board and leads the strategic direction of the business, driving growth both organically and through targeted acquisitions. His leadership approach blends clarity of vision with a highly collaborative style, ensuring teams are empowered, aligned, and focused on delivering excellent outcomes for clients. 

Russell joined SHW in 2002 as a Chartered Building Surveyor within the Building Consultancy team in Crawley, following a successful period at Malcolm Hollis Consultancy. Within two years he was promoted to Associate, where he helped reshape the division by decentralising operations and establishing strong regional teams in Brighton, London and Croydon — an early example of his belief in local accountability supported by a unified firm-wide strategy. 

After progressing to Director in 2006 and Divisional Head in 2010, Russell led sustained year‑on‑year divisional growth. He oversaw expansion into Worthing and Eastbourne, increased coverage across Kent and Hampshire, and grew the service offer to include Planning and Health & Safety. His leadership style is grounded in building high‑performing teams, fostering open communication, and ensuring people have the autonomy to innovate while remaining connected to shared goals. 

A member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) with more than 25 years’ experience across commercial and residential sectors, Russell is known for his measured, personable and solution-focused approach. He places strong emphasis on cultivating long‑term client relationships, setting clear expectations and creating a culture where service quality and professional integrity are paramount. 

Russell leads with a strong sense of responsibility to the people and communities SHW serves. He encourages cross‑team collaboration, supports talent development at all levels, and champions an inclusive, supportive working environment where individuals are encouraged to grow and take ownership. SHW has continued to progress thanks in large part to his skill in combining business acumen with compassion and sound judgment. 

In his spare time, Russell enjoys spending time with family & friends along with exploring the South Downs on his mountain bike; snowboarding in winter months along with playing padel and football weekly.