Virtus Contracts at 25 years and beyond  

As one of London’s first-choice principal contractors, Virtus Contracts has spent over two decades refining its approach to fit-out and refurbishment projects across the capital and beyond. We chatted with the Financial Director, Alex Smith, about how the company has become a trusted partner to some of the city’s biggest commercial property clients.   

Founded in 2000 by Mark Cooper and Tom Martin, alongside Paul Green and Ed Falvey, Virtus Contracts started small but with a bold philosophy: if a client wasn’t satisfied, they wouldn’t have to pay until they were. That commitment to customer satisfaction wasn’t just a promise, it was a founding principle. As Alex explains, “The company’s first ever project was a small-scale refurbishment worth £5000…we were not only paid in full, but the customers came back and went on to negotiate over £170,000 worth of work with us. I think that shows how excellence has always been in our DNA.” 

Over the next 20 years, the four men built Virtus Contracts up into an industry-leading contractor. The company now boasts a diverse skillset that has allowed it to take on a wide variety of projects, ranging from corporate offices to high-end residential spaces and specialist refurbishments in buildings such as The Globe Theatre and Dulwich College. Though primarily working within the M25, the Virtus team has taken on select projects in cities like Brighton and York, showcasing a willingness to go the distance – literally and figuratively – for the right opportunities. As Alex mentions, “We’re happy to travel for clients that need us, and we’re always looking to take on new challenges.”  

Today, despite Ed, Tom, and Paul having since retired, Mark is still going strong and he’s helping usher in the next generation of leadership, as well as continuing to innovate the company internally. In 2018, Virtus launched a dedicated Small Works team to manage minor projects more efficiently. In addition, in 2021 the company transitioned to an employee ownership trust (EOT) model, a move that Alex believes reflects the company’s long-standing appreciation for its workforce. “It was important to us to reward the hard-working people who make Virtus what it is. Through this ownership model, our team can enjoy long-term stability and longevity within the business.”  

Looking ahead, Virtus Contracts is focused on expanding its design and build capabilities. Since 2024, a dedicated Design Works department has been taking shape, aiming to offer a more integrated and innovative service. “We want to bring something unique and special to the market,” says Alex.  

Trusted network 

So, what’s the secret ingredient to Virtus Contracts’ success? It’s the culture of partnership. Whether with clients, subcontractors, or internal teams, Virtus has always placed collaboration at its core. “We define ourselves as partners in construction. Partners is the key word there,” Alex notes. “Some of the clients we work with today have been with the business since its very first year. Repeat business is really our bread and butter, and it’s resulted in some of our biggest projects to date.” With more than 70 percent of its work coming from repeat clients, it’s clear to see that the company has built its reputation on trust, quality, and unwavering attention to detail.  

This ethos extends to the company’s trusted network of subcontractors who have consistently delivered on Virtus’s high standards. “Over the last 25 years, we’ve worked to identify the best of the best and build strong professional partnerships with them. We trust their work, and they trust ours. We treat our tradespeople with the level of respect that they deserve, as they bring expertise into the business that we would otherwise be lost without,” he adds.   

Internally, that same mutual respect has fostered impressive staff retention. Over one-third of Virtus’ employees have been with them for over ten years. “I think that speaks to the positive culture we’ve cultivated throughout the business,” Alex points out.   

As Virtus Contracts marks its 25th anniversary, the company’s story is one of steady growth, consistent values, and a forward-thinking approach. With strong foundations in place, a dedicated team, and an ever-expanding range of services, Virtus is well-positioned to continue leading London’s construction scene for decades to come. As Alex concludes, “It’s been an amazing 25 years, and I can’t wait to see what comes next.”   

www.virtus-contracts.co.uk