The Confederation of British Metalforming (CBM) has named Andrea Wilson its Ambassador for SMEs. She will represent CBM and take part in discussions with industry representatives and policymakers. Those companies manufacture fasteners, forgings, sheet metalwork and cold-rolled products.
“Andrea brings unparalleled passion, credibility and commitment to this important role,” explained Geraldine Bolton, CEO of the CBM.
“She has consistently demonstrated her dedication to supporting manufacturing SMEs and ensuring their voices are heard – using over 20 years’ experience of running her own business.”
“Her tireless advocacy, particularly her campaign for a Minister for Manufacturing, reflects the determination and vision our sector needs and we are delighted to welcome Andrea as our Ambassador for SMEs, a new but increasingly important role for the CBM.”
Commenting on her appointment, Andrea Wilson said: “Small and Medium-sized manufacturers are the foundation of the UK’s industrial strength, yet too often their voices are not heard, and their needs are overlooked.”
“I am passionate about ensuring they receive the recognition, support and representation they so richly deserve.”
She added: “The UK SME supply chain is resilient, brilliant, and the backbone of our economy, and I look forward to working with the CBM team and its members to champion the sector and help shape a stronger future for British manufacturing.”
CBM says downstream manufacturers are excluded from decisions affecting manufacturing and steel policy. The association is seeking a seat on the Steel Council.
“CBM has consistently called for stronger downstream representation, including seeking a seat on the Steel Council, to help ensure policy better reflects the businesses that add value, create skilled jobs and drive growth across UK manufacturing,” continued Stephen Morley, president of the CBM.
“Manufacturing SMEs are the engine room of our industry, driving innovation, creating skilled jobs and supporting local economies across the UK. Andrea has earned enormous respect throughout the sector for her unwavering support of these businesses and her ability to bring people together around a common purpose.”
Morley concluded: “Her appointment reinforces CBM’s commitment to ensuring SMEs remain at the heart of manufacturing policy and industry development. Where others just talk about support for SMEs we actually ‘walk the walk’.”
Source: CBM
About The Confederation of British Metalforming
The Confederation of British Metalforming, established in 1998, represents 200 member companies and 75,000 employees involved in producing fasteners, forgings, sheet metalwork and cold-rolled products. Their customers operate in aerospace, automotive, construction, defense, engineering, nuclear, offshore and consumer goods markets. CBM is based at the National Metalforming Centre in West Bromwich, West Midlands. The association represents members in legislative matters, identifies business opportunities and shares technical information through events and partnerships. It connects companies with specialists in metals, forgings and fasteners and works with research organizations, including the Advanced Forming Research Centre. CBM also administers Climate Change Levy claims for member companies, reporting annual savings of 4 million pounds.
