06/08/26
The people behind Peartree: Nichola Underwood
By the time the doors open each morning, workplaces are expected to be clean, safe and ready for the day ahead. What often goes unseen is the operational effort required to make that happen.
Professional cleaning is far more than a checklist. It is a skilled, physical discipline that relies on careful planning, precise timing and exceptional attention to detail. Behind every immaculate reception, meeting room and workspace is a team of professionals working tirelessly to deliver consistently high standards.
For many of our frontline teams, the working day begins long before most people arrive at work, or continues long after they have left. Cleaning involves working unsociable hours – early mornings, late evenings and overnight shifts are all part of maintaining busy commercial environments without disrupting the businesses that rely on them.
The industry attracts inidividuals with resilience, determination and a strong work ethic. Many of our colleagues have moved to the UK from around the world to build careers, support their families and contribute to the communities they now call home. Adapting to a new country, culture and language takes commitment – qualities that our teams bring to their work every day.
Professional cleaning also demands far more technical expertise than many people realise. From compliance and health and safety requirements to specialist equipment and evolving cleaning technologies, today’s cleaning professionals operate in increasingly sophisticated environments where consistency and attention to detail matter.
Cleaning Operative Svetlana Mickevica, who recently celebrated an incredible 21 years with Peartree, reflects on her career in the commercial cleaning sector:
“For me, cleaning is about taking pride in what you do. I always try to leave a building looking its best. I want people to arrive and feel comfortable, happy, and cared for.”
Her advice to those entering the profession reflects the standards that underpin our service delivery across the country:
“There is no time to slack. Take pride in your work. Pay attention to details and always do your best.”
As we celebrate 40 years as an independent family business, we remain committed to recognising the professionalism and dedication of our frontline personnel. Their work may often happen outside normal business hours, but it plays an essential role in keeping workplaces operating seamlessly each day.
Thank you to all our cleaning operatives for your continued dedication.
“The cleaners are the people who make your jobs easier. They’re with clients every day and represent the company. If you look after your people, they’ll look after your business.” – Abigail Payne, Operations Manager
Cleaning Operative Svetlana Mickevica, who recently celebrated an incredible 21 years with Peartree, reflects on her career in the commercial cleaning sector:
“For me, cleaning is about taking pride in what you do. I always try to leave a building looking its best. I want people to arrive and feel comfortable, happy, and cared for.”
Her advice to those entering the profession reflects the standards that underpin our service delivery across the country:
“There is no time to slack. Take pride in your work. Pay attention to details and always do your best.”
As we celebrate 40 years as an independent family business, we remain committed to recognising the professionalism and dedication of our frontline personnel. Their work may often happen outside normal business hours, but it plays an essential role in keeping workplaces operating seamlessly each day.
Thank you to all our cleaning operatives for your continued dedication.
“The cleaners are the people who make your jobs easier. They’re with clients every day and represent the company. If you look after your people, they’ll look after your business.” – Abigail Payne, Operations Manager
