New appointment at the Manufacturing Advisory Service

The Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS) has today announced the appointment of John Ruddleston as a Manufacturing Skills Workshop Trainer and Advisor to bolster the strong team already delivering MAS events across the South West.

With nearly 50 best practice events attracting almost 500 attendees in the past year, MAS has just launched a new series of events for manufacturers. Attendees will be able to gain specialist insight to a number of themes with events covering Leadership, Supply Chain, Lean and Product Development.

John has over 30 years of industry knowledge in lean manufacturing and business improvements, having worked with small to medium sized (SME) firms and multinationals in Europe and America. He spent 20 years in the aerospace sector working for companies including Messier Dowty and Meggitt, followed by 10 years in the food and drink sector working for businesses including Greencore, Bakkavor and Samworth. He also has experience in the logistics and pharmaceutical sectors.

John said: “Working for MAS provides me with the ideal platform to pass on the skills and knowledge I have picked up over the last 30 years. I am looking forward to working closely with manufacturers to help them develop the skills, confidence and direction needed to seize opportunities to grow.”

Linda Middleton-Jones, Stakeholder Relationships and Events Manager at MAS, said: “Our events are often a first step for manufacturers to be introduced to MAS and gain an insight into how we can help them improve their businesses. Peer-to-peer learning and networking are key benefits of attending and we listen closely to feedback to ensure we are addressing topics that will best support manufacturers’ current and future needs.

“We have already delivered a raft of successful events across the South West and John will help us manage the increasing demand we have received from manufacturers in the region. The extensive experience and skills he brings will ensure that businesses connect with the best support available from MAS. John is a great addition to the team.”

MAS events are tailored to meet the needs of SME manufacturers and designed to help businesses grow, improve productivity, efficiency and profit. MAS skills workshops are FREE for SME manufacturers based in England.