Derbyshire-based Star Micronics GB Ltd,, a market leader in sliding head technology, has appointed Jon Mannion as its area sales manager covering the Midlands region.

His role will encourage the continued growth of Star GB by identifying new opportunities that could benefit from sliding head lathe technology, while supporting the company’s existing users with new machine tool investments and providing technical insight on complex applications.

With 32 years of combined industry experience under his belt and having dealt with a range of OEM and sub-contract manufacturing businesses in the aerospace, automotive, medical, fasteners and other precision-critical industries, Mr Mannion brings to the role a thorough understanding of the challenges faced by the UK manufacturing sector and the productivity gains that can be achieved from supplying high-quality engineering solutions.

Mr Mannion’s most recent employment spanned almost a decade in regional sales for an established UK supplier of high-end machine tools. Prior to this, he has worked in several sales roles supplying machinery and offering technical solutions involving milling, turning, grinding, EDM, automation and other specialist equipment.

As sliding head production is rapidly becoming a staple of UK manufacturing, Mr Mannion’s extensive machine tool experience and the relationships developed throughout his career make him well-placed to ensure that all manufacturers in his region can take advantage of the latest innovations from Star — including the game-changing SX-38 Type A sliding head lathe that recently made its UK debut.

Market-leading technology
Managing director Stephen Totty said: “Star GB has developed a reputation not only for the market-leading technology we offer, but for the knowledge, dedication and passion our employees have for supporting our customers.

“Our primary objective is to help customers understand how to best utilise our machinery to improve productivity, increase competitiveness and expand the manufacturing capabilities of their businesses.

“I believe our team comprises some of the best technical engineers in the industry and I am pleased to welcome Jon to Star GB. Given his experience and ambition, I am confident that his appointment puts our customers in the Midlands region in very capable hands.”

Looking forward, Star GB is always interested in hearing from talented people looking to realise their potential working with the UK market leader in sliding head technology. Further information can be found on the careers page of the Star GB website (www.stargb.com/careers).