The
Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM) has appointed one of the industry’s most passionate advocates as its new Ambassador for Small and Medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Andrea Wilson (pictured) who recently left manufacturing business Hone-All Precision after the sale and successful completion of her 5-year earn out, will work closely with CBM members, industry stakeholders and policymakers to ensure the challenges, opportunities and successes of manufacturing SMEs are represented at the highest levels.
She has dedicated her extensive career to championing the interests of the forward-thinking businesses that form the backbone of the sector and are responsible for hundreds of thousands of jobs.
Her unwavering commitment to promoting British industry has seen her become a leading voice for manufacturing, including her determined campaign calling for the appointment of a dedicated Minister for Manufacturing to provide stronger leadership and strategic support.
“Andrea brings unparalleled passion, credibility and commitment to this important role,” explained Geraldine Bolton, CEO of the Confederation of British Metalforming.
“She has consistently demonstrated her dedication to supporting manufacturing SMEs and ensuring their voices are heard - using over 20 years’ experience of running her own business.
“Her tireless advocacy, particularly her campaign for a Minister for Manufacturing, reflects the determination and vision our sector needs and we are delighted to welcome Andrea as our Ambassador for SMEs, a new but increasingly important role for the CBM.”
Commenting on her appointment, Andrea Wilson said: “Small and Medium-sized manufacturers are the foundation of the UK’s industrial strength, yet too often their voices are not heard, and their needs are overlooked.
“I am passionate about ensuring they receive the recognition, support and representation they so richly deserve.”
She added: “The UK SME supply chain is resilient, brilliant, and the backbone of our economy, and I look forward to working with the CBM team and its members to champion the sector and help shape a stronger future for British manufacturing.”
The Confederation of British Metalforming currently represents the interests of 200 members and 75,000 employees involved in the production of fasteners, forgings, sheet metalwork and cold rolled products.
Andrea’s appointment comes at a time when the CBM continues to press for a more joined-up approach to industrial policy.
The organisation believes that downstream manufacturers are too often excluded from policy development, with decisions affecting manufacturing and steel frequently made in isolation rather than considering the needs of the entire supply chain.
“CBM has consistently called for stronger downstream representation, including seeking a seat on the Steel Council, to help ensure policy better reflects the businesses that add value, create skilled jobs and drive growth across UK manufacturing,” continued Stephen Morley, President of the CBM.
“Manufacturing SMEs are the engine room of our industry, driving innovation, creating skilled jobs and supporting local economies across the UK. Andrea has earned enormous respect throughout the sector for her unwavering support of these businesses and her ability to bring people together around a common purpose.”
He concluded: “Her appointment reinforces CBM’s commitment to ensuring SMEs remain at the heart of manufacturing policy and industry development. Where others just talk about support for SMEs we actually ‘walk the walk’.”
Wilson has also recently launched ManufacturingUK.org - a free-to-access resource hub for UK Engineering and Manufacturing.
For further information, please visit
www.thecbm.co.uk