- 1 Nov 2013
SPP Pumps is proud to announce that ex-Siemens executive Ken Winn has been appointed Site Director at Coleford, taking over the role of retiring chief, Terry Newby.
‘This is a great opportunity for me,’ explains Ken. ‘SPP Pumps is a leading manufacturer of centrifugal pumps and systems to industries all around the world, and I was impressed by its growth in a difficult global market. My role now is to drive that success forward.’
Ken comes to SPP Pumps with an impressive pedigree. Originally an engine designer on gas turbines, he progressed to the role of Technical Director at Napier Turbochargers. He then moved into general management, eventually becoming CEO of Siemens’ service operations in the United States.
‘It’s clear to me that SPP Pumps has strength in depth,’ Ken explains. ‘Its ability to manage complex supply chains and logistics, and bring them together in an efficient manufacturing process, is unique. It’s all about providing the best solutions to customers, where it really matters. One of my key drivers is to help make engineering and manufacturing competitive in the UK, without moving to lower cost locations - and SPP Pumps is well placed to be a key part of that drive.’
Ken’s transition to Site Director was made all the easier by SPP Pumps’ outgoing chief, Terry Newby. ‘The overlap has been very smooth,’ Ken says. ‘Terry has been Site Director here since 2003 and has done a fantastic job. I could not have asked for a better mentor to ease me into the role.’
As for Terry, he’s proud of what he’s achieved in this long career at SPP Pumps. ‘I first came to the Coleford site in 1996,’ he explains. ‘Initially I had production responsibility – after that, I was in charge of the machine shop. In 2001, I was delighted to be appointed Manufacturing Director, then Site Director two years after that.’
When asked to pick out the highlights of his time at SPP Pumps, Terry was in no doubt: ‘It’s the people. A company is made by its employees, and we’re lucky to have a great mix of people who are always friendly and helpful. Though if I had to pick out one highlight, it would be the visit of Princess Anne in 2012 to celebrate SPP’s 25 years at Coleford. I was extremely proud that day.’
Now embarking on his well-earned retirement, Terry says he will miss the day-to-day operations at SPP Pumps. ‘What sets us apart from our competitors is our history and our knowledgeable, experienced employees. We tackle the difficult jobs because we can.’
As he takes the reins at the top, Ken Winn couldn’t agree more. ‘I’m excited to be at the helm of a business that can take on the most challenging of situations. I must also say that the location in the Forest of Dean is a real bonus. It was a shock when I encountered a wild boar on one of my early-morning runs in the forest – but a great experience!’