Newly appointed SAS Operations Director Steve Daniels is an engineer at heart. Interested in how things work and problem solving, Steve has twenty five years of experience in UK manufacturing in a diverse range of industries.
“What attracts me to manufacturing? I’m fascinated by the manufacturing processes: how to optimise them and flow materials through the business effectively. I recognise that machinery and technology take an organisation only so far, the capacity for real progress lies in the people whose skill and creativity will drive an organisation forward.
“What is rewarding is that it’s possible to have a significant impact by bringing people together and making the most of everyone’s abilities. Creating an inclusive environment allows people to collaborate effectively and deliver world class results.”
Continuous improvement
In joining SAS, Steve believes he is starting from an already high point. “It’s unbelievable what this company achieves. The people are genuine pioneers. They are completely unfazed by technical challenges. They don’t know how to say no and they never give up. This level of technical expertise and capability epitomise all that is great about UK manufacturing.”
“Even better, the culture of SAS is to keep moving forward from an already strong position. Many successful companies rest on their laurels and don’t strive for ongoing improvement. SAS recognises that there are always new things to learn and new ways to add value for customers.”
A strong future for manufacturing
In an economy that has progressively moved towards being based on services rather than manufacturing, Steve has always believed that manufacturing is absolutely essential to the UK.
“Many organisations have devolved their supply chains and manufacturing into low cost countries to reduce cost. But cost is not the only factor: agility and technical expertise are what is really required to respond to the current volatility and uncertainty in the global economy. I see a great future for highly skilled manufacturers like SAS over the next few years.”
First steps
Joining the company on 28 September, Steve is responsible for both the Bridgend and Maybole factories and will be based in Bridgend. Once Steve has completely understood the current operation, his priority will be to dig deep into the needs of the customer, to ensure the direction of SAS and its product development is securely aligned to customer demand.
“I am concentrating on learning the business, spending time with people from all functions and really understanding how everything fits together. I can definitely see opportunity for progress, particularly in supporting a culture of collaboration. The key is to make sure everyone is on the same page and working together to support the strategic goals.
“It’s an exciting business, entrepreneurial beyond belief, with a passionate and committed team. That spirit is fantastic. My role is to make sure that the operations are underpinning the ongoing commercial success of this business.”
Sounds like SAS Operations are in safe hands.