Tony Bowkett, CEO of Nikken, has officially taken office as the President of the Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), having served as Acting President for the previous six months.
Tony succeeded outgoing MTA President Dave Burley in May this year but had to wait until the association’s Annual General Meeting in November, which took place on Tony’s home turf at Nikken Kosakusho in Sheffield, before officially taking up office.
Following confirmation of his appointment, Mr Bowkett said: “It has been yet another busy year for the association and its members. I’m pleased to say that despite events, almost all our member companies are reporting a better year’s trading performance.
“This is in spite of ongoing Brexit issues, exceptionally high inflation rates and restricted trading due to ongoing global conflicts.
“I think such performances emphasise the determination of the British manufacturing industry to succeed. It is also pleasing to see the government recognising the importance of the UK’s advanced manufacturing sector by releasing funding to help sustain important initiatives on the road to net zero.”
He said the importance of the manufacturing sector to the wider UK economy should not be overlooked.
“Our sector now accounts for 9% of GDP, supports 2.6 million jobs, 41% of all R&D expenditure and boasts average salaries of £36,488, which is 9% above the national average,” he added.
“We have certainly earned the right to be policy makers. It is our intention to shape the future direction of our industry by lobbying for a say on industrial and economic policy – whoever forms the next government.”
He concluded: “Our top priority KPI is member engagement. We are reviewing and refreshing all our member services to ensure they stay relevant and encourage new members to join our ranks.”
Delegates attending the AGM also paid tribute to immediate Past President, Dave Burley, thanking him for all his hard work during his term of office.
Mr Bowkett said: “During his Presidency Dave steered the association through a much-needed Covid recovery programme, and delivered a very strong MACH 2022 exhibition. His leadership, experience and cool approach has served our association very well.” The meeting also saw the launch of the new President’s charity The Children’s Hospital Charity of which further details will be released over the coming weeks.