We are thrilled to announce that Douglas Cooke, our Founder and Executive Chairman, has been recognised in the Top 100 Influential People 2026.
The programme recognises leaders whose impact goes beyond business success, celebrating those who drive positive change across their industries and communities, and Douglas is a very deserving addition to the list.
Douglas’ journey in cleaning and FM began in 1972, when a summer job sparked a passion that would shape a career spanning more than 50 years. In 1989, he founded Principle Cleaning Services, which has grown from a small business into a market-leading company, employing over 3,000 people, generating more than £120 million in turnover and partnering with some of London’s most iconic buildings, towers and mixed-use estates.
Under Douglas’ leadership, Principle has become known for its high standards, commitment to social responsibility, focus on innovation and – most importantly – putting people first. In 2023, he led the transition to an Employee Ownership Trust, making us London’s first cleaning partner to adopt this model and giving our people a real stake in the business. Many others have since followed our lead.
Douglas has long championed fair pay and better working conditions. He was one of the first leaders in our sector to introduce the London Living Wage and played a key role in the campaign that influenced the introduction of the National Living Wage. He also pioneered daytime cleaning through Principle’s Hybrid Cleaning Process, helping transform cleaners into visible, valued members of workplace communities while supporting full-time employment and improved working lives.
Beyond Principle, Douglas has made a huge contribution to the wider industry. He’s a Fellow of the Institute of Directors, has spent more than three decades involved with the CSSA (including eight years as Chairman), and led its reform in 2017, following a failed merger. He’s also chaired the British Cleaning Council, represented the sector on the Home Office Immigration Advisory Committee, supported the establishment of the CSSA’s women’s committee and promoted UK best practice on a global stage.
Douglas has shared his knowledge and experience at conferences around the world – from London and Glasgow to Paris, Rome, Auckland, Moscow and beyond – encouraging others to adopt approaches such as daytime cleaning.
His contributions have been recognised with several major industry honours, including Lifetime Achievement Awards at the European Cleaning & Hygiene Awards (2016) and the CSSA Awards (2022). He was also instrumental in Principle achieving the Cleaning Industry Management Standard.
Away from work, Douglas has also played first-class rugby for Saracens and has been refereeing the game for an impressive 26 years.
Commenting on the recognition, Douglas said:“I am deeply honoured to be included in the Top 100 Influential People 2026. This recognition reflects not only my journey, but the dedication, passion and support of every member of the Principle family. I remain grateful for the trust of our clients, the commitment of our people and the strength of our partnerships. I hope this acknowledgement inspires others in our sector to lead with integrity, courage and a focus on people first.”
What an incredible achievement, Douglas! From all of us at Principle, thank you for your leadership and inspiration – congratulations!
