Douglas Cooke steps down as a director of the CSSA

Principle Cleaning Services’ Founder and Chairman, Douglas Cooke, is stepping down from his long-standing role as a Director of the Cleaning & Support Services Association (CSSA). Cooke has dedicated 33 years of services to the Association, including two terms as Chairman spanning four and six years.

The announcement was made on 5 June at the CSSA Annual Luncheon at The Savoy, London, where colleagues, peers and industry leaders gather to celebrate the achievements of the professional cleaning industry. During the event, the Association’s Chairman, Paul Ashton, recognised Cooke’s outstanding contribution to the CSSA and the wider sector.

Ashton said: “Today marks the end of an extraordinary chapter. While we will miss [Doug’s] presence around the table, his influence will remain embedded in this Association for many years to come.

“Doug, on behalf of the entire CSSA, thank you. Thank you for your leadership. Thank you for your contribution. And thank you for thirty-three years of service to an industry that is stronger because of you.”

His remarks were met with prolonged applause and a standing ovation from the hundreds of industry professionals in attendance.

That recognition reflected more than three decades of leadership within the Association and the wider cleaning sector. During his time with the CSSA, Cooke played a pivotal role in shaping the organisation’s direction and strengthening its influence across the industry.

In 2015, he led the CSSA’s withdrawal from the proposed merger with Building Futures Group – which folded two years later –  restoring the Association’s independence and helping rebuild its membership from just six companies to around 110. He also refocused the organisation on education, apprenticeships and representing the interests of the cleaning and support services sector, while championing professional standards, skills development and industry recognition to help elevate the profile of cleaning and facilities management across the UK.

Cooke was the driving force behind the CSSA Innovation Showcase, where the UK’s most advanced cleaning products, services and technologies are exhibited at The Cleaning Show.

He also strengthened the CSSA’s international influence by building close relationships with the World Federation of Building Service Contractors (WFBSC), helping to showcase UK innovation and best practice on the global stage. He actively promoted initiatives such as Hybrid Cleaning, demonstrating how operational innovation could improve both efficiency and sustainability.

Outside of the CSSA, Cooke sat on the BCCE Ltd (British Cleaning Council Exhibitions Ltd) Board, the company behind The Cleaning Show, and was heavily involved in its return to London from Birmingham.

Cooke’s contribution has been recognised through numerous accolades, including the European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards Lifetime Achievement Award in 2016 and the CSSA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2022.

Principle has been a member of the CSSA since its inception in 1989. Under Cooke’s leadership, Principle has become known for its commitment to service excellence, innovation, corporate social responsibility and employee wellbeing. In 2023, Cooke led the company’s transition to an Employee Ownership Trust, making Principle the first London cleaning company to adopt the model, helping to secure the long-term future of the business for its employees.

As Cooke steps back from his CSSA responsibilities, he leaves behind an extraordinary legacy of leadership, innovation and service. Through his commitment to raising standards, developing future talent and championing the value of the cleaning profession, he has helped shape the modern cleaning industry and elevate its standing both in the UK and internationally.

His influence can be seen not only in the success of the organisations he has led, but also in the countless individuals whose careers he has supported and inspired. While his chapter at the CSSA may be coming to an end, the impact of his contribution will continue to be felt across the industry for many years to come.

Reflecting on his time with the CSSA, Cooke said: “When I first became involved with the CSSA, I could never have imagined the journey ahead. It has been a privilege to help grow the association, develop future leaders and champion the value of our industry.

“I have also been fortunate to have such a fantastic team at Principle, whose support has allowed me to dedicate time to the CSSA and contribute to its success.

“While I am stepping back from my role as Director, I remain passionate about the future of professional cleaning and look forward to seeing the next generation build on everything that has been achieved.”