MAS chief steps down with a final rallying call to manufacturers
1 min read
One of the region’s leading industrial figures has announced his intention to step down from his post, ending a six and a half year-reign at the helm of the Manufacturing Advisory Service in the West Midlands (MAS-WM).
David Wright (pictured) will leave the specialist business support organisation in July to take up a senior position at Coventry University.
The announcement brings to an end a career that has seen the former head of operations at car maker Morgan successfully launch MAS-WM in 2002, subsequently helping more than 5000 companies in the region add £150 million to their turnovers.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Manufacturing Advisory Service and have been delighted with the significant contribution the organisation has made in assisting manufacturers in every industry discipline imaginable,” Wright said.
“When we first started we had some good ideas, but what we have managed to do is turn the blueprint into something really tangible; bottom line support delivered by advisers that understand manufacturing.
“The organisation is now entering its next exciting phase of development, which is why I feel it is the ideal time for a new person to take the helm and drive it forward.”
He continued: “West Midlands manufacturing still has a positive future if it continues to aim for world class best practice, invests in its people and strives for innovation it will emerge from the downturn stronger than ever before. Just remember, business as usual is not an option!”
MAS-WM is currently working with the West Midlands Taskforce to help the sector emerge from the current economic downturn by offering a unique mix of in-depth support and assistance.
This includes work in process improvement, strategic change, international marketing and specialist projects in rail and aerospace and defence through the industry-leading SC21 programme.
Going forward, the organisation will shortly be announcing a New Product Development initiative, which will provide eligible manufacturers with financial and strategic support towards introducing innovative products to the marketplace.
Colin Tivey, Chairman of MAS-WM, concluded:
“David has been a major figure in West Midlands’ manufacturing, both in shaping the expert support on offer and in promoting the sector to young people, stakeholders, investors and potential customers.”
