Westley Engineering boss takes the helm at MAN

THE managing director of a Birmingham engineering firm has been appointed new chairman of a manufacturing collective.

Gerry Dunne, head of Westley Engineering, has taken the helm of MAN, an eight-strong group of manufacturers based in the West Midlands.

In addition to Westley, the group comprises: Advanced Chemical Etching, of Telford, Alucast, Wednesbury, Barklay Plastics and Brandauer Precision Pressings, both Birmingham, FW Cables, of Aston, PP Electrical Systems, of Cheslyn Hay and Wrekin Circuits, also Telford.

Mr Dunne, who succeeds Brandauer’s David Spears, said he was keen to build on the group’s unique offer – which comprises a total manufacturing solution covering all aspects of mechanical, electrical and electronic engineering processes.

He is hoping the group will be able to tap into existing global demand for UK technical expertise and innovation and believes there will never be a better time for West Midlands’ manufacturers to steal a march in the aerospace, defence, medical and renewable energy sectors.

However, he said it would not be easy as a number of challenges lay ahead including an aging workforce, excessive red tape and rising raw material costs.

“This is a really exciting time to be taking over as chairman of MAN, with all companies reporting increases in volumes and significant new opportunities in the pipeline,” said Mr Dunne.

“Sales are up between 20 and 40% across all members, with automotive particularly strong. The re-branding exercise and website we completed last year are also paying off with enquiries up, new work being secured and lots of new exhibitions planned for 2011.

“However, there are challenges ahead. MAN members are reporting up to 150% increases in the price of steel/copper and there are also problems with getting material when we need it. We’ve also seen shortages in components, which is hitting assembly and delaying lead times.”

Originally established as part of an Advantage West Midlands automotive initiative, MAN has evolved into a self-sustainable group that boasts a combined turnover of £70m and employs in excess of 600 people.

“MAN works because we each offer a different specialism which customers can tap into,” added Mr Dunne.

“Sometimes the contract may involve one firm, sometimes it may be three and it can, in some instances, involve the full collaboration.

“In fact, we’ve just recently secured a seven figure deal to supply high precision pressings to a satellite specialist. This will involve ourselves at Westley, Brandauer and ACE first, but could also lead to other businesses being involved as the project develops.”