Manufacturing Insight appoints new director

Manufacturing Insight is an independent organisation, formed as part of the government's 2008 Manufacturing Strategy. Its key aim is to improve the image of the sector, particularly among young people. This will involve campaigning in schools to help build enthusiasm for manufacturing and engineering careers. Ian Lucas, Business Minister, said: "I congratulate Nick Hussey on his appointment as director of Manufacturing Insight. This is a key commitment under our 2008 Manufacturing Strategy, and recognises how vitally important it is to promote, support and celebrate UK manufacturing successes." Hussey said: "It is essential that we change the image of manufacturing and raise awareness of the exciting careers that are available. That is why I am delighted to be given this opportunity." Manufacturing Insight has been set up with an interim board to oversee strategy, objectives, plans and budgets. The government has allocated £50,000 towards set-up costs, but core funding is to come from the business community. On the board are Simon Edmonds of the Department for Business, Juergen Maier of Siemens, EEF's Gilbert Toppin, Tim Page of the TUC and Andy Reynolds Smith, executive director of GKN and chair of the CBI's manufacturing council. Hussey will address this month's Best Factory Awards event, on 18 September at the Royal Lancaster hotel in London. * Look out for an exclusive interview with Nick Hussey in a forthcoming issue of Works Management