Founder & CEO
Dave Park
Dave Park began his career as an apprentice carpenter and joiner, laying the foundation for his lifelong dedication to craftsmanship and business leadership.
He successfully completed a four-year apprenticeship in carpentry and joinery, earning both City & Guilds Craft and City & Guilds Advanced Craft qualifications with credit. His journey started at Eden & Clements in Haunch of Venison Yard, London W1, where he spent two and a half years before securing a self-arranged transfer—akin to a football-style free transfer—to Hammond & Miles in South Woodford, London E18. There, he quickly progressed to running small projects as a foreman before moving on to managing large-scale refurbishments, including Berni Inn total renovations.
Dave’s expertise continued to grow as he transitioned into office-based supervisory roles, overseeing projects ranging from major West End supermarket refurbishments to high-end porcelain outlets in Baker Street and luxury residential properties.
Since founding Cumberland in 1977, Dave has played a pivotal role in delivering all types of refurbishment projects, including major structural alterations and the management of electrical and mechanical subcontractors. His strategic leadership has guided the company through four major UK recessions, cementing his reputation as both a skilled tradesman and an astute businessman.
Now in his fourth decade at the helm, Dave remains dedicated to giving back to the industry. A strong advocate for apprenticeship training, he is committed to recruiting and developing the next generation of skilled professionals.
Industry Roles & Contributions
- Retail Trust London Ball Committee: Former chairman and long-serving committee member for over a decade.
- Education & Mentorship: Lectures and advises design students at London Metropolitan University, mentoring numerous students and helping them secure industry placements through his extensive network.
- National Association of Shopfitters (NAS): Served as President, overseeing and implementing industry-standard terms and conditions that are now widely adopted.
- Apprenticeship Development: Played a key role in creating second- and third-year NVQs for woodworking apprentices, ensuring the highest standards in training and education.
Dave’s dedication to craftsmanship, mentorship, and business excellence continues to shape both Cumberland Group and the wider industry.