Mr Tomlinson is a qualified engineer who has spent time setting up factories for UK companies in the US and Germany. With over 25 years working in the SME sector he was awarded an MBE for his Services to International Trade in 2005. Formerly general manager at Midlands Engineering Company and Springpart Manufacturing Ltd, Tomlinson brings a wealth of engineering and senior management experience to Brandauer, and is responsible for managing the new welded components technology project.

“This in-line process is a breakthrough in how we produce complex precision parts and has tremendous potential in the market for contacted parts. These machines are specialised and designed bespoke for each application and the process requires technicians who can manage the whole business process from cradle to grave. The team we have recruited went through rigorous selection interviews and is currently undertaking three months’ intensive on the job training in Europe,” says Mr Tomlinson.

David Spears, managing director of Brandauer, said, “This is best in class technology and represents a unique opportunity for us to offer a welded pressed components solution to our customers that is not currently available elsewhere. Brian has the right pedigree to manage the cultural and technological change involved and to take us forward with this over the next 10 years and beyond.”

Brandauer is one of the largest contract presswork companies in Europe. It works with difficult materials on challenging problems and its approach to business is based on customer intimacy. This solutions-based approach has allowed Brandauer to respond to its customers’ needs in the welded pressed components sector. Through management of the technological and cultural change involved it aims to revolutionise the welded components market and offer unrivalled efficiencies and service to its customers.