Two Engineers Who Started at the Bottom Now Lead Over 260 People Across Five Countries

Marlow, UK – 16th June 2025 - Evolution Names Jake Rackham and Mark Corrigan as Joint Managing Directors During Record-Breaking 30th Anniversary Year.

You lock your door at night because you understand that protection matters. The 260+ employees at Evolution understand this better than most. They have spent 30 years designing, building and implementing the systems that keep businesses safe across the globe. Now, they are putting their trust in two men who started their careers as apprentice engineers and worked their way to the top.

Jake Rackham and Mark Corrigan have been named Joint Group Managing Directors of Evolution Europe Ltd, taking the helm from founders Richard Lambert and John Wust during the company's 30th year in business. The transition comes as Evolution announces record-breaking revenue and expansion into new territories.

But here's what makes this story different: Evolution isn't just changing leaders. It's proving that employee ownership works.

 The Journey from Training Course to Boardroom

Thirteen years ago, Mark Corrigan met Jake Rackham on their first day on a training course. They only knew they worked for the same company because of their clothing. Back then, Evolution had 50 staff and £5 million in turnover.

"Who would have thought that two engineers would one day become joint Group MDs of the UK & Ireland's largest privately owned, employee-owned business in our sector?" Corrigan reflected during the anniversary celebration on the Thames.

The numbers tell part of the story. When they started, Evolution operated from two UK offices. Today, the company spans eight companies across five countries with operations on five continents.

But the real story isn't in the numbers. It's in what happens when you give people ownership of their future.

 Why Employee Ownership Changes Everything

Three years ago, Evolution made a decision. The founders transferred majority ownership to an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT), essentially giving the company to its workers.

"Three years ago, we started this journey" explains Rackham. "Today, we've grown the business significantly and we're two years ahead of our financial targets."

The results speak volumes:

• Staff numbers increased from 190 to over 260 in three years

• The company expanded into Netherlands, Norway, and Italy

 Building Trust Through Excellence

While Rackham and Corrigan lead the overall vision, they are supported by a board that understands every aspect of the business. Derrel Beasley, steps up as Group Technical Director. Behind every installation, every project, every client interaction stands Keir Jones, the Group Operations Director. Richard Bater, now serves as the Group Director of Finance, and Risk and Design Ltd Managing Director, Brendan McGarrity.

The company's mission is clear: keep Evolution at the forefront of innovation.

"We're entering a new era of digital transformation," Corrigan notes. "Cloud-based systems, smart buildings, cameras that gather data beyond security. We're not just participating in the industry's future, we're defining it."

The company's technical reach is staggering. Last year alone, Evolution:

• Serviced over 8,500 client calls globally

• Installed 10,000 readers and nearly 20,000 cameras

• Laid approximately 1.2 million meters of cable

• Worked in over 30 countries

 Beyond Security: Risk and Design

Perhaps the most innovative part of Evolution's growth comes from Evolution Risk and Design Ltd. Starting with just McGarrity in 2018, the division now employs 34 people.

"We are one of few companies that offers true end-to-end service," Rackham explains. "From understanding clients' operational needs through to maintenance and beyond. We're at the forefront of the strategic security providers in this industry."

This isn't hyperbole. Evolution's security and expertise place them in conversations and positions that require absolute trust and proven capability.

 The Human Side of Growth

One theme emerges repeatedly throughout the organisation: gratitude. Rackham and Corrigan recognise the long-serving team members who built Evolution's foundation, with over 40 employees with more than 10 years of service.

"This exceptional talent enables us to expand sustainably," Corrigan emphasises. "We are growing thoughtfully, ensuring consistent, exceptional service wherever our clients are in the world." Continuing, Corrigan stated "Our success lies within our people. The talent, effort, and dedication each of our colleagues brings every day. They make us efficient, successful, and profitable. This talent allows us to take Evolution anywhere in the world."

 What Makes Evolution Different

In an industry often driven by acquisition and consolidation, Evolution chose a different path. They grow their own talent. They expand organically. They put their people first.

The founders' decision to step back isn't retirement, it's evolution. They will continue as consultants, available when needed, but are confident in the team they have built.

"The experience demonstrated over the past few years, and of course the youth and energy of the new Board, will carry Evolution forward," Richard Lambert noted in his farewell address.

 The Future of Security

As businesses face increasingly complex threats, from cyber-attacks to physical breaches, they need partners who understand that security isn't just about technology. It's about people. It's about trust. It's about knowing someone has your back.

Evolution's new leadership understands this because they have lived it. They have installed the systems. They have answered the late-night calls. They have built relationships that span decades.

"We understand the requirements because getting it right starts with truly listening to our clients," Rackham emphasises. "Details matter. In our industry, there's no room for 'almost right.'"

 A Message to the Industry

As Evolution enters its next chapter, the message to competitors and clients alike is clear: employee ownership works. Organic growth works. Investing in people works.

The company that started 30 years ago with a simple idea, that security should be done right, now stands as the UK and Ireland's largest privately owned, employee-owned business in the sector.

"None of this would be possible without each and every one of you," Corrigan tells the staff. "Your hard work, dedication, and support have brought us to this milestone."

 Looking Ahead

The new leadership is committed to building on Evolution's strong foundation while embracing innovation and maintaining the culture that got them here.

"We are truly one team," Rackham commented. "Here's to the next 30 years of Evolution."

 About Evolution

Evolution is the UK and Ireland's largest privately owned, employee-owned security systems integrator. With operations across five countries and a team of over 260 professionals, Evolution provides integrated security solutions including access control, CCTV, and risk management services to clients worldwide.

The company's unique employee ownership structure, established in 2022, ensures that every team member has a stake in Evolution's continued success. This year, Evolution celebrates both its 30th anniversary and its transition to employee ownership, positioning the company for continued global expansion.

For more information about Evolution and its comprehensive security solutions, visit www.evolutionsecurity.com or contact Ross Wilks, Marketing Manager.

When you choose Evolution Security, you are not just getting a security provider. You are getting a partner that's invested, literally, in your success. Because when your people own the company, everyone wins.