Story Highlight
– SEW-EURODRIVE UK hires five for automation roles.
– Simon Parkin appointed health and safety compliance officer.
– Gary Simpson to manage sales in Scotland.
– Company responds to increasing software-led automation demand.
– SEW-EURODRIVE supports apprenticeships for future engineers.
Full Story
Drive technology firm SEW-EURODRIVE UK, situated in Normanton, has bolstered its automation capabilities by welcoming five new members to its team across various departments including business development, engineering, health and safety, and customer service.
Simon Parkin has taken on the role of health and safety compliance officer, while Gary Simpson steps in as the area sales manager specifically for Scotland. In addition, Lexie Evans has joined as a customer service advisor, and two apprentices, Jack Addinall and Alex Hobson, have embarked on their journey within the electronic automation engineering team.
Gary Simpson expressed his enthusiasm for joining the company, stating, “Joining the SEW-EURODRIVE UK team is a fantastic opportunity; the company has a strong reputation for genuine customer service and technical expertise. My focus will be on building long-term relationships with customers by understanding their operations and supporting them with reliable, high-quality solutions. With the depth of knowledge and support across the wider SEW-EURODRIVE UK team, I’m confident we can continue to add real value to Scottish industry.”
These strategic appointments coincide with an increase in demand for software-driven automation solutions across various industries. In light of this, SEW-EURODRIVE UK is not only bringing on new hires but has also implemented changes internally to enhance collaboration between departments and promote skills development among its workforce.
Operating from a 10,000 square foot site in Normanton, SEW-EURODRIVE UK employs approximately 160 individuals. The company serves numerous prominent national and international clients across sectors such as logistics, manufacturing, and aviation.
Managing director Andy Turner remarked on the importance of these additions, saying, “I am delighted to expand the team to prepare us for growth, both in the Scottish market and with our automation product offering. Alongside our physical drive components, at SEW we have a fantastic range of control and automation technology to help manage speed, positioning, and synchronisation. This is an essential area to help manufacturers improve productivity as industry heads into more software-defined processes.”
Turner further highlighted the company’s commitment to fostering talent, saying, “I am equally proud that we can support two young apprentices as they start their careers. As a former apprentice myself, I know just how valuable these opportunities can be, and I am proud that SEW-EURODRIVE is helping to shape the next generation of electronic engineers.”
The company’s focus on developing internal talent and promoting from within is reflective of broader trends in the UK industry, where skills shortages are often cited as a major challenge. By training apprentices like Addinall and Hobson, SEW-EURODRIVE aims to cultivate a skilled workforce that meets the future demands of the automation sector.
The increasing reliance on automation and smart technology in manufacturing is driving transformations across multiple sectors. Industry experts note that businesses are increasingly adopting software-led solutions to enhance efficiency, reduce operational costs, and better manage complex processes. This shift underscores the vital role that companies like SEW-EURODRIVE will play in an evolving industrial landscape.
With the integration of advanced control technology, SEW-EURODRIVE UK is well-positioned to assist manufacturers as they adapt to these new paradigms. The company’s robust approach to customer service, coupled with its technical expertise, places it in a strong position to compete in both local and international markets.
The recent appointments not only reflect the company’s ambition for growth but also its commitment to fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. By merging talents from various fields, SEW-EURODRIVE is looking to enhance its service offerings while equipping its employees with diverse skills to better cater to the needs of its customers.
As industries focus more on automation and technology integration, the demand for skilled professionals in these fields is expected to rise. SEW-EURODRIVE’s initiatives to bring in new talent and support apprentices indicate its proactive stance in addressing these demands.
The future of the business looks promising, bolstered by the expertise of newly appointed staff and a focus on innovation. By emphasising quality service and customer relationships, SEW-EURODRIVE is poised to maintain its reputation as a leader in the drive technology sector.
Overall, the company’s expansion and emphasis on training young professionals signal a bright future, not just for SEW-EURODRIVE, but for the wider automation industry in the UK. As the market evolves, SEW-EURODRIVE aims to remain at the forefront, delivering cutting-edge solutions that meet the growing needs of its diverse clientele.
Our Thoughts
The article does not indicate any specific health and safety incidents or breaches at SEW-EURODRIVE UK. However, it highlights the recent appointment of a health and safety compliance officer, Simon Parkin, which suggests a proactive approach to health and safety management in the organization.
To avoid potential risks associated with automation and engineering roles, key safety lessons include:
1. **Training and Awareness**: Regular training in health and safety practices, especially relevant to automation technology, should be mandatory for all employees, particularly new hires and apprentices.
2. **Risk Assessments**: Conduct thorough risk assessments related to workplace environment and automation equipment to identify hazards and implement control measures in line with the Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.
3. **Health and Safety Policies**: Ensure that health and safety policies are communicated effectively to all staff, emphasizing the importance of compliance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974.
4. **Monitoring and Evaluation**: Establish a system for monitoring health and safety performance, encouraging reporting of near misses or hazards, and continuously improving safety standards.
By integrating these practices, SEW-EURODRIVE UK could foster a culture of safety and compliance, potentially preventing incidents related to workplace automation and engineering activities.
