Meet Guy Windsor-Lewis, CEO and Founder of Locale
Guy Windsor-Lewis is the brains behind Locale, a real estate technology platform offering software solutions for managing buildings. Established in 2005, Locale has grown steadily over the years, servicing 80 million square feet of UK real estate. With headquarters in Oxford and a team of 35 dedicated employees, the platform is now used by top landmark properties like The Shard.
In a recent interview, Windsor-Lewis shares insights into the company’s launch, the best and worst aspects of his job, and his thoughts on industries ready for disruption.
When asked about one thing he would have done differently when launching Locale, Windsor-Lewis says he should have focused more on marketing. Despite a solid product and market knowledge, he believes that the company could have benefitted greatly from better marketing initiatives, instead of relying heavily on word-of-mouth and referrals.
As for the best parts of his job, Windsor-Lewis enjoys watching his team grow, seeing an idea come to life, and managing the evolution of Locale. However, he also acknowledges the challenges of the pandemic, particularly in terms of mental health, and the frustration of clients who are unwilling to listen.
Windsor-Lewis also touches on his adventurous side, recounting his experiences in shark diving and paragliding. When asked about other sectors that are ripe for disruption, he points to the construction industry. He considers it a sector still reliant on outdated methods without sufficient attention to carbon emissions, the green agenda, or best practices.
Finally, Windsor-Lewis discusses two critical hires he made in the early stages of Locale. Dan O’Gorman, the chief product officer, has been with the company for nearly 13 years, providing invaluable technical expertise. COO Toni Delli-Compagni, a South African ex-hotelier, has also played an essential role in the company’s success with her exceptional multitasking and commitment.
