Richard Preston: Tributes paid to uncompromising idealist

Richard Preston (pictured, below), Honorary Fellow of Association for Project Management and a well-respected figure in the project profession, has passed away aged 70, following a long battle with illness.

Described as an ‘uncompromising idealist’ and ‘a constant source of insight’ by those who knew him, Richard forged a distinguished career in project management, with a focus on education and development.

Richard was awarded Honorary Fellowship of APM in 2004 and was a long-time volunteer with APM. In particular, he spent many years volunteering with APM’s North West Regional Network, including a spell as Chair from 2020 to 2024.

After being diagnosed with amyloidosis – a rare disease caused when abnormal proteins accumulate as ‘amyloid deposits’ in body tissues and organs – Richard established the charity Amyloid Action with his wife, Kathryn, to raise awareness and funds.

Dr Bill Egginton, also a Fellow of APM and a Registered Project Professional, knew Richard for over 25 years. He said: “Richard was my mentor when I joined APM as an assessor, and over the years, was a constant source of insight, challenge and advice. It was easy to forget Richard's personal health situation. He never made it out as being a big issue, rather more of an irritation than the serious condition it was.

“Richard spoke truth to power, with a Northern candidness and directness that I daresay some found uncomfortable, but which I genuinely enjoyed and respected. He made light of life, and made me and others laugh. Thank you Richard for our time together.” 

Scott Walkinshaw, APM’s Head of Knowledge, said: “As a volunteer, trainer and assessor, Richard was always a passionate advocate for the profession, and for APM. He was never afraid to challenge conventional thinking or speak candidly about how to improve project skills and capability.

“In many ways he was an idealist; he could be uncompromising in his views, but he always debated with a self-deprecating sense of humour. He shaped the development of countless project practitioners, which leaves a lasting legacy for the profession.”

Katie Rogers, BAE Systems, said: “During their time as co-chairs of the APM North-West network, Richard Preston, alongside Neil Horner, supported us with a collaborative project between our organisation and the APM. The aim of this project was to increase engagement between our project management apprentices and the APM. Richard was extremely knowledgeable, and we respected the experience and perspective that he was able to bring to our sessions. This promoted our ability to think outside of the box, a task that was fairly challenging for new apprentices that had their corporate thinking hats on! 

“Despite his health struggles, Richard went above and beyond to collaborate with us and assist our development as well-rounded project professionals. Richard always brought his spirit, energy, and personality to all that he did; a true supportive and encouraging person championing the profession and those who work within it. He will be greatly missed.”

Donations to Richard’s charity, Amyloid Action, can be made here.