FBUK Member Anniversary Neville Trust
Staff from T&E Neville in 1919
Vicky Trumper Director, Neville Trust 5th Generation Family Owner
The Neville Trust’s 150-Year legacy of community, compassion, and craftsmanship In 1875 Thomas and Edward Neville, two brothers who had trained as joiners, started working for themselves as T&E Neville as builders, joiners and undertakers. This year, the Neville Trust celebrates its 150th anniversary. Vicky Trumper, Director and 5th Generation Family Owner talks to us about longevity and values at The Neville Trust. What is the most challenging aspect about being the custodian of a 150 year old family business? At Neville Trust, family isn’t just our name – it’s our identity. For 150 years, our business has been built on a foundation of loyalty, compassion, and community, qualities that have guided us through generations. As a fifth- generation family member now leading the company, I feel the weight of that history every single day. It’s a privilege, but it’s also a challenge. The hardest part is finding the right balance between honouring our heritage and driving progress. To stay relevant, we have to be willing to innovate and adapt. Holding on to what works while embracing change is a delicate, ongoing process. What are you most proud of about your family business?
The people who make this company what it is. Recently, we celebrated our Long Service Awards, recognising 24 employees for a combined 265 years of service. Their loyalty, commitment, and passion are extraordinary. Both I and my co-Director husband Ian, are also incredibly proud that our son and daughter are now part of the sixth generation to join the business. We are a family with a shared sense of purpose. Was it always assumed you’d work in the business? I originally trained as a nurse and a midwife so, no, joining the business was never a foregone conclusion. My family always encouraged finding your own path, contributing something new, and bringing fresh ideas to the table. It’s never been about doing things a certain way because that’s how they’ve always been done. It’s about doing what’s right for the company and the people who rely on us. If there was one thing you could change about your business, what would it be? The speed at which we embrace change. We’re making real progress in areas like sustainability, particularly at Neville Joinery where we’re researching eco-friendly materials and more responsible practices.
But I believe we can push harder. The world moves quickly, and we need to match that pace to remain at the forefront of our industries. What advice would you have given yourself when starting your career in the family business? I’ve learned that every generation must make its mark. Having the courage to challenge the status quo and push for what feels right is essential. What, if anything, would you have done differently? Such a difficult question! But every experience has shaped me as a leader and helped bring Neville Trust to where it is today. As we celebrate our 150th anniversary with the biggest Trust family gathering yet, I feel more committed than ever to protecting and growing what generations before me built. Neville Trust is more than a company – it’s a community. As we look to the future, we will continue to do business the way we always have: with integrity, compassion and an unwavering commitment to our people. Alex and James Trumper Sixth generation family members to work at Neville Trust
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