UK NEWS

MAN Group creates 50 new jobs

A unique collective of manufacturers is embarking on a major recruitment drive after a string of reshoring wins and new breakthroughs in electrification technology. The Manufacturing Assembly Network (MAN), which comprises eight subcontract manufacturers and a specialist engineering design agency, has more than 50 different vacancies currently up for grabs and is urging people to come forward to make the most of the opportunities.

Roles range from SMT quality technicians and casting experts to technical sales and CNC machine setters, with firms also placing their faith in the future by investing in a host of interns and apprentices. Peter Davies, CEO of James Lister & Sons and co-chair of the MAN Group, says: “Despite all of the economic challenges out of our control, UK manufacturing is really buoyant at the moment and there are lots of opportunities out there for firms who are delivering new innovations and world-class performance.”
For further information www.man-group.co.uk/careers

New leadership team at Ficep UK

Ficep UK has appointed three directors with 38 years’ combined experience of working at the company. Finance director Pam Allen, sales director Chris Berriman and operations director Richard Clark, now take responsibility for the management of Ficep UK – a steel fabrication machinery supplier – along with existing company director and group CEO, Christian Colombo. The move follows the departure of Ficep UK founder and MD Mark Jones, who stepped down in July after 23 years leading the business. Jones takes on a new role as non-executive director, for a short period.
For further information www.ficep.co.uk

World’s first all-electric jet engine

Scottish start-up Mako Aerospace, based in Dunfermline, has teamed up with the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), operated by the University of Strathclyde, to manufacture the world’s first all-electric jet engine, which could double the range of electric aircraft compared to current hybrid models. Headed by University of Strathclyde graduates Kieran Duncan and Pia Saelen, Mako is on a mission to realise aircraft electrification using a lighter and more efficient electric jet engine that aims to reduce fuel costs by 70% compared with a traditional turboprop engine.

NMIS engineers are involved in wide-ranging research exploring how the technology could play a significant role in achieving a fully electrical commercial flight. The University of Strathclyde’s Advanced Forming Research Centre (AFRC) is providing engineering and manufacturing expertise while also introducing potential supply chain partners from across its network with a view to eventually manufacturing the engines in Scotland.
For further information www.nmis.scot

Brammer Buck & Hickman becomes Rubix

Brammer Buck & Hickman is changing its name to Rubix. The company has been part of the Rubix Group since 2018 and the name change marks a significant moment in its development. The name ‘Rubix’ signifies problem-solving, and more specifically, the creative and human approach that the business adopts to tackle customer challenges. Customers will begin to see the Rubix name and brand appear across all branches and customer Insite locations across the UK, as well as at its technical competency centres, and the national distribution centre in Wolverhampton.
For further information https://uk.rubix.com

HER MAJESTY QUEEN ELIZABETH II – 1926 – 2022

The whole team at MTI was deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Her Majesty The Queen. She was a great supporter of industry throughout her reign. Indeed, Her Majesty inaugurated many UK engineering projects, including the Channel Tunnel and the Dartford Crossing, which bears her name: The Queen Elizabeth II Bridge. She was fond of technology, famously using online video calls to meet people during the pandemic. She will be greatly missed by the UK manufacturing and engineering community, and everyone at MTI extends their heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family on their profound loss.
For further information www.royal.uk