News & INSIGHTS

Gavin Linley, Managing Director at QDOS, took an unconventional route into the CAD and fire safety industry. Before joining the business, Gavin spent 13 years working as a Personal Injury Litigation Executive. However, through his brother Damian Linley, founder of QDOS, he was able to see first-hand how the business was beginning to grow as a specialist provider of fire alarm drawings. Gavin decided to take the leap into a new industry and has not looked back since!

Applying skills from earlier in his career such as organisation and client management he was prepared to work as Operations Manager. Joining in 2014, Gavin places emphasis on the business’ success to the people around him and his brother and the determination shared between them both. Building the business required a huge commitment, with evenings and weekends spent developing drawings, supporting clients and growing the company from the ground up.

Gavin has been Managing Director for over two years. He handed over the daily responsibilities to Joe Turner and now looks over the Business for opportunities, improvements and growth. Gavin oversees the company’s finances; onboarding new customers and he is very involved with supporting the team with advice and guidance as the business continues to grow.

To learn more about Gavin beyond the day-to-day running of the business, we asked him a series of quick-fire questions about his motivations, interests and life outside of QDOS.

What motivates you personally in your work?

“I think working with your brother is all the motivation you need. We push each other to find ways to improve and grow each day, so we’re always on our toes.”

What do you like most about the fire safety industry?

“I like being part of an industry that is ultimately there to protect lives. That’s why I’m proud of the part we play in assisting our clients with compliance.”

What are some of your favourite activities to do outside of work?

“We got Charlie the Cockapoo just over two years ago and he takes up most of our time now. If anyone had told me beforehand this breed was like having an overactive, needy toddler, I might have just had another child instead!”

What’s your most memorable Leeds United match experience?

“For me I have two – and they both involve us playing Liverpool.

I remember exactly where I was stood as a 15-year-old when I saw Tony Yeboah hit a thunderous strike in off the crossbar. The crowd went silent for a split second as it bounced over the line before erupting!

Then in 2000, Mark Viduka scored four goals as we came back from 0–2 down to win 4–3, limbs everywhere!”

How do you like to relax after a busy week managing QDOS?

“I love going to the football with my daughter, although that isn’t always relaxing! I also enjoy a good bottle of red wine – I’m easily pleased.”

What’s something about you that most people at QDOS might not know?

“I once had an audition to go on TV’s Bullseye. I blame my playing partner for his general knowledge as my darts were good – surely that was the only reason we didn’t make it to the TV show!”

Best thing you’ve watched recently?

“Not so recent, but This Is Us was incredible TV to watch. More recently I loved Shrinking on Apple TV, and Succession was great too.”

Three words that describe you outside of work

Thoughtful. Fun. Footballaholic.

Can you share a memorable moment or achievement from your time at QDOS?

“We’ve had so many memorable achievements and a lot of ‘pinch me’ moments. When I joined QDOS, Damian and I didn’t know how far the company could grow – we just hoped it could pay us both a wage. We never imagined we would be working out of a 2,500 sqft office with 12 additional staff.”