The Manufacturing Technologies Association (MTA), the voice of the UK’s engineering-based manufacturing sector, has appointed a new Acting President.
With more than 30 years’ experience as Managing Director and Founder of NIKKEN Kosakusho Europe Ltd, Tony Bowkett is responsible for NIKKENs activities across Europe and beyond, which includes multiple subsidiary companies within the NIKKEN Europe Group, together operating in excess of 23 countries.
Tony, who succeeds outgoing MTA President Dave Burley, is a staunch advocate for the manufacturing technologies sector. He is a Founder Industrial Partner and Non-Executive Industrial Board member of Sheffield’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) and has also held other advisory and voluntary roles.
In addition, he firmly believes in UK manufacturing and knowledge transfer as a vital wealth creator, focusing on developing and training the next generation of engineers. He has also supported and exhibited at all MACH exhibitions since 1992, promoting NIKKEN products and solutions, as well as the manufacturing technologies sector in general.
He aspires to promote and develop the MTA to engage and network with its members and associates to ensure that UK manufacturing technologies are recognised as critical parts of government economic strategy.
Experienced in UK and European business development, acquisitions, sales, product development, research and training in the precision engineering sectors, he is a former Financial Director and Vice President of the MTA.
On a personal level, Tony is a dedicated family man who has been married for 40 years with two daughters and a grandchild. In his spare time, he is a passionate golfer, keen runner and sports enthusiast, traveller and gourmet.
James Selka, CEO of the MTA, said: “We would like to thank Dave Burley for the enormous contribution he has made to the association during his time on the board and as President, including during the recent challenging period.
“We are incredibly lucky to have a talented and strong board representing our members and are grateful that Tony has agreed to take on the role of Acting President. He is a man who understands the challenges facing the manufacturing sector and the solutions that are required to see it flourish once again.”