Janitorial Express Brought in a Major General during Covid to help support our customers
When You Don’t Know What Comes Next, Find Someone Who Does.
For over three decades, Janitorial Express has been the backbone support to large sections of the UK cleaning and education sectors sector, delivering reliability, care and personal service. But when the world turned upside down, we did something unusual: we turned to a Major General. And that decision changed everything.
Our Non-Executive Director (NED), Major General Jeremy Francis Rowan, CB, OBE, QHS, has played a pivotal role in shaping our strategic direction — especially during the turbulent years of the Covid-19 pandemic and the difficult recovery that followed.
Major General Rowan’s background is extraordinary. As a senior figure in the British Army Medical Services, he advised the UK government during the Ebola crisis, bringing a calm, evidence-led approach to situations most would find overwhelming. When Covid-19 brought London to a standstill — and with it, nearly 50% of our business — his experience proved invaluable.
While the City of London was effectively closed for two years, our future felt uncertain. But under his guidance, we stayed focused. He helped us make the tough decisions early, ensured we remained agile, and never lost sight of the bigger picture. He reminded us that resilience isn’t just about survival — it’s about preparing to grow again when the time is right.
Since then, his support hasn’t wavered. As the world has shifted and business models have evolved, his strategic insight continues to shape our growth. Whether navigating supply chain disruptions, adapting to changing customer behaviours, or planning for a more sustainable future, his perspective has been a steadying influence.
Having a Non-Executive Director with his level of experience has been a privilege — but more importantly, it’s shown us the value of welcoming voices from outside our immediate world. He doesn’t just understand risk; he understands leadership, resilience, and how to guide others through complexity with clarity.
I have been fortunate as not every business has access to a former Major General — but every business leader can benefit from trusted outside perspective. Whether it’s a mentor, a peer in another sector, or an experienced Non-Exec, inviting in fresh thinking can make all the difference.
In moments of pressure, we all need people who’ve navigated complexity before. People who can see what we can’t. Sometimes the smartest thing you can do is stop, listen — and ask for help.
Because where it comes from matters.
