Job Title: General Manager
Company: Flex Ltd.
Tell us a bit about yourself. This can include telling us what fires you up about the job you do, your professional achievements, your career highlights. What inspires you? What attracted you to pursue a career in manufacturing? Is there anything else you’d like to say about either your job or UK manufacturing?
From an early age I was drawn to science and how things are made. That fascination led me to study engineering, manufacturing and management at the University of Manchester. My career has spanned automotive, vacuum pumps, dry film photoresist and manufacturing services for electronics. The thread running through my career is a deep passion for manufacturing and continuous improvement. My personal journey – rising from a comprehensive school education to become a senior leader at Flex – drives me to inspire young people to explore careers in manufacturing and to help shape the next generation of manufacturing leaders. Talent, passion, and curiosity – not background – defines potential.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Live every day as if it’s your last – you’ll be right one day. Life moves quickly and opportunities come when you least expect them. Don’t be afraid to take chances, speak up and push yourself beyond your comfort zone. You’re more capable than you realise.
What is your favourite engineered/manufactured product?
The wind-up radio. It’s a brilliant example of simple innovation that solves a real-world problem and offers access to information and education in areas without reliable electricity. It reminds me that manufacturing isn’t just about making things, it’s a
Please give one interesting fact about yourself that not many people know.
I once nearly drowned in the Zambezi River while travelling in Africa. It was a terrifying moment, and a powerful reminder of how fragile and precious life is. This experience both frightened me, and focused me with a renewed sense of purpose.
If you weren’t in manufacturing what would be your dream job?
I’ve always believed in the power of education and the importance of sharing knowledge. Helping others grow and realise their potential is incredibly fulfilling. Today, I do this as leader and mentor while running a business, but to focus solely on this as a dedicated teacher would be amazing.
