Darren Webber

Dean Langford has been appointed Managing Director, MetLase

News

Dean Langford has been appointed Managing Director, MetLase

Published: 27.11.2024

With over 20 years’ senior engineering, manufacturing and supply chain management experience for businesses including McLaren Racing, Cullum Detuners, Ishida Europe and most recently Safetykleen, where he was Managing Director, Group Manufacturing, Dean has a strong track-record of developing high performing, multi-disciplined teams throughout the manufacturing supply chain,  and leading businesses through periods of significant strategic and operational growth in the UK and EMEA.

He will lead the strategic development and growth of MetLase’s engineering solutions for safety and mission critical industries, and accelerate go-to-market opportunities for a growing portfolio of manufacturing optimisation, robotics and automation solutions. 

Unipart Technologies Group, Managing Director, Dr David McGorman said:

“I am really pleased to add Dean to the Unipart leadership team and to have his experience leading our MetLase business into the future. 

“His technical background, coupled with experience in applying continuous improvement, quality and safety best practices across manufacturing and engineering operations will support the ongoing development of MetLase’s unique smart manufacturing and optimised tooling and assembly solutions for customers in Unipart’s target markets, including; automotive, healthcare, aerospace & defence, technology and rail.”

Dean Langford, Managing Director, MetLase said:

“I am delighted to be joining MetLase, a Unipart Company with a fantastic reputation in British manufacturing, and a portfolio of solutions to optimise productivity, efficiency and sustainability across the end to end engineering and manufacturing supply chain.

“At the heart of this are teams of great people and a unique culture of engagement and continuous improvement. I am really looking forward to working with our engineers and technology specialists, to 

further understand the needs of our customers and target markets, and ensure we are setup with a strategy to exceed these customer needs and deliver scalable solutions that drive the business forwards.”

SHARE THIS STORY…


MetLase launches two ‘digital benches’ at Smart Factory Expo

News

MetLase launches two ‘digital benches’ at Smart Factory Expo

Published: 07.06.2023

Helping manufacturers improve productivity, reduce assembly time, and harvest critical data.

Metlase will showcase its Component Assembly Bench and Repair Bench at this year’s Smart Factory Expo, taking place in Birmingham (June 7-8) as part of Manufacturing and Engineering
Week.

We will have both products on display at Stand L108, with a host of technical experts on hand to talk visitors through the importance of switching to smart tooling to speed up time to market and streamline production cells.

The Repair Bench includes a digital hand tool that optimises and digitises physical data
gathering to boost productivity by 40%, whilst also eliminating errors and providing a full
digital quality audit trail.

“Demand for automation, precision, and efficiency in manufacturing processes is growing across a vast array of industries and that’s really fuelling our growth,” explained Mat Marsh, Managing Director of MetLase.

“Our proposition leverages the benefits of a digital technology platform with our specialist
manufacturing expertise and experience, giving many existing and potential customers
access to ‘smart digital’ features that deliver immediate tangible benefits.”

He continued: “Smart Factory Expo will be the first time we will bring our Component
Assembly Bench and Repair Bench to a major industrial event. These automated solutions
have previously not been possible and our focus on real-time inspection of manual
processes can provide unprecedented levels of productivity.

“We will also be showcasing how our fixturing/tooling can be further enhanced by
incorporating MetElements into the overall solution.
“This proven MetLase digital platform has been created so that it can integrate almost any
type of sensor or digital device into bespoke fixtures and products, accelerating speed to
market and securing a level of performance not achieved by other alternative joining
techniques.”

The Repair Bench for testing electrical components has been developed in partnership with industry and aims to enhance electrical testing, increasing productivity and delivering higher-quality components.

MetLase engineers have been working on the innovation for over a year and expect it to boost reliability, reduce downtime and, importantly, improve safety for users in the UK. This product will be joined on the stand at Smart Factory Expo by the Component Assembly Bench. It incorporates advanced features, including precision measurement tools, integrated sensors and data management, the latter providing real-time data insights that optimise workflow and can help reduce waste.

Mr Marsh concluded: “A lot of companies are offering digital manufacturing, but few can bring solutions to market that have been distilled from significant experience of working with OEMs and Tier One companies. Incorporating MetElements into fixturing/tooling means clients can enjoy the best of both worlds – industry-leading engineering in a customisable digital platform that gives you greater control, greater insight and greater performance.”

Mat Marsh, Managing Director of MetLase

SHARE THIS STORY…


More MetLase news articles…

We are exhibiting at Engineering Solutions Live

News

We are exhibiting at Engineering Solutions Live

Published: 02.03.2023

We’re delighted to be exhibiting at Engineering Solutions Live 2023, which is now open for registrations!

Returning to the British Motor Museum in Gaydon on Thursday 23rd March 2023, Engineering Solutions Live is your one-stop-shop for new contacts and thought leadership in the engineering sector.
Configured for busy design and production engineers, the event provides the opportunity to visit market-leading suppliers and solution providers, network with senior decision-makers from across the UK and boost your learning during our expert-led conference session.

Visit their website to find out more and to register for your FREE ticket!
We look forward to seeing you there!

Design Engineer – Mechanical

MetLase is a joint-venture between Rolls-Royce and Unipart, which provides bespoke engineering solutions to complex problems, where precision and speed of deployment are critical.  MetLase has built a multi-disciplinary engineering team capable of delivering custom design, innovation and operational efficiencies. 

We are excited to be recruiting for a Design Engineer (Mechanical) to join the busy team in Sheffiled.  Reporting to the Lead Engineer, and working closely with the rest of the engineering team, the Design Engineer (Mechanical) will be responsible for the design and development of new products, working with customers and their engineering departments to ensure they meet specification, functional, and business performance requirements.  You will also be responsible for solving complex problems for customers and prepare designs and calculations to support the development of a wide range of leading-edge fixtures and products.

Key responsibilities fo the role include:

  • Development of new products working with customers and their engineering departments, ensuring they meet specification, functional, design and business performance requirements.
  • Involvement in the design and development of innovative products from concept to operation including system specification, definition, prototyping, manufacture, testing, installation and commissioning.
  • Producing drawings, calculations, specifications and technical reports which may include performance and failure investigation for a wide variety of products.
  • Assessment of technical, time and material requirements for the preparation of customer quotations
  • Supporting other engineers within the team.
  • Ensuring intellectual property and commercial issues associated with product development and introduction are effectively managed with suppliers and customers.
  • Developing own knowledge and ability. Continuous improvement activities to support business growth
  • Keeping senior management up-to-date on project status and progress.

The successful candidate will be qualified to degree level in a relevant engineering subject, and will have a proven background in product design and development with significant experience in the use of CAD systems preferably NX.  Candidates must also have a high degree of initiative and strong problem-solving capability and possess the ability to work independently and contribute effectively as a member of a high-performance team.

In return, you will benefit from 25 days holiday (plus bank holidays), company pension scheme, monthly 1-1s with your line manager, a PDP designed specifically for you, twice yearly appraisals, Employee Engagement surveys, wellbeing events and employee benefits through Unipart Group.

General

  • Hours: 38hrs per week
  • Location: Advanced Manufacturing Park, Sheffield
  • Benefits: 25 days holiday + statutory Bank Holidays, DC Pension Scheme, cycle to work scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, Life Assurance

Workshop Engineer

MetLase provides bespoke engineering solutions to complex problems, where precision and speed of deployment are critical.  MetLase has built a multi-disciplinary engineering team capable of delivering custom design, innovation and operational efficiencies. 

Due to business growth we are now lloking to recruit a Workshop Engineer to be responsible for the support of all workshop activities including the preparation of parts laser cut from sheet metal and the assembly of a variety of products, ensuring they meet specification.

Key responsibilities of the role include:

  • Manufacturing/assembly of new products working with Design Engineers, ensuring they meet specification, functional, design and business performance requirements
  • Involvement in the manufacturing of innovative products from concept to operation including, prototyping, manufacture, testing, installation and commissioning
  • Measurement and inspection of products ensuring they are up to specification
  • Supporting other engineers within the team
  • Ensuring intellectual property and commercial issues associated with product development and introduction are effectively managed with suppliers and customers. Continuous improvement/Workshop support
  • Developing own knowledge and ability
  • Continuous improvement activities to support business growth
  • Workshop support, equipment maintenance, stock check. Reporting
  • Keeping senior management and Engineers up-to-date on project status and progress.

The successful candidate will be qualified to HNC/HND in an Engineering Disipline and be able to demonstrate the following skills:

  • IT skills
  • Strong planning
  • Organising and time management skills
  • Written and verbal communication skills
  • Customer focus
  • Be quality focused
  • Be self-motivated
  • Flexible and committed to achieving team/site objectives
  • Strong team player

In return, you will benefit from monthly 1-1s with your line manager, a PDP designed specifically for you, twice yearly appraisals, Employee Engagement surveys, wellbeing events and employee benefits through Unipart Group. 

General

  • Hours: 38hrs per week
  • Location: Advanced Manufacturing Park, Sheffield
  • Benefits: 25 days holiday + statutory Bank Holidays, DC Pension Scheme, cycle to work scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, Life Assurance

Account Manager

MetLase provides bespoke engineering solutions to complex problems where precision and speed of deployment are critical. Using patented techniques developed within the Aerospace sector, MetLase technologies are now being applied across multiple manufacturing industries such as automotive, construction, defence, energy and renewables.

Due to our growth plans we are now looking to recruit an Account Manager to join our busy sales team.  Focused on sales growth and the winning of new business with existing customers, you will be required to work with teams from across the business to ensure you meet MetLase’s targets for sales, profit and growth. Principally focused on the rail sector. The position will require travel, sometimes at short notice and outside of the UK, as and when required.

Key responsibilities of the role include:

  • Support the deployment of the Customer Engagement System ensuring collaborative working practice
  • Work with the sales and operations team to plan, prepare and deliver responses to ITT/RFQ, presentations and proposals to existing and prospective customers
  • Work closely with the Product Management team to deliver new products to the market
  • Maintain the CRM system with all relevant customer information and opportunities
  • Achieve sales targets, profit and growth for designated customers – both in sales and margins
  • Understand, articulate and sell MetLase’s product and service propositions
  • Underte financial analysis of all sales ensuring margins are maximised and profit delivered in line with plan
  • Production of management information for both internal and external use to deliver improvements and exceed customer’s expectations
  • Communicate clearly, robustly and timely with the customer
  • Work closely with management across the business to identify opportunity for growth
  • Represent the business at conferences, fairs and networking events
  • Any other duties/responsibilities as identified and commensurate with the role
  • Continually monitor market conditions
  • Attend regular contract and performance reviews across the customer base to enhance satisfaction ensuring retention and growth
  • Work with the engineering team to ensure all customer requirements are delivered upon
  • Work with legal department in the preparation of contracts
  • Attendance at Strategic Reviews (internal and external) supporting the Sales Director
  • Work in a safe manner, taking reasonable care for the health and safety of yourself and other people at work, following appropriate Health and Safety guidance, training and company rules and procedures as appropriate
  • Report any accidents, hazards or dangerous / unsafe behaviour to your line manager immediately

The successful candidate will be qualified to degree level and have previous experience in an account management role, ideally within the technology industry.  Excellent communication skills are required along with time management skills and a high level of IT literacy.  Previous experience of proposal writing and technical comprehension along with the ability to sell and negotiate with closing skills are also requirements for the role.

Throughout the recruitment process we will be looking for someone who can demonstrate experience with the following:

Hunter/prospector salesperson.

Commercial deal structuring.

Proposition development.

Proposal/bid creation.

Presentation Skills.

Negotiation and closing skills.

Facilitation skills.

Contracts and legal terms.

Customer engagement system and competencies.

CRM knowledge.

High degree of numeracy skills.

Knowledge of supply chain activities.

Flexible.

In return, you will benefit from monthly 1-1s with your line manager, a PDP designed specifically for you, twice yearly appraisals, Employee Engagement surveys, wellbeing events and employee benefits through Unipart Group. 

General

  • Hours: 38hrs per week
  • Location: Advanced Manufacturing Park, Sheffield
  • Benefits: 25 days holiday + statutory Bank Holidays, DC Pension Scheme, Business needs car, cycle to work scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, Life Assurance

Workshop Technician

MetLase provides bespoke engineering solutions to complex problems, where precision and speed of deployment are critical.  MetLase has built a multi-disciplinary engineering team capable of delivering custom design, innovation and operational efficiencies. 

Due to business growth we are now lloking to recruit a Workshop Technician to be responsible for the support of all workshop activities including the preparation of parts laser cut from sheet metal and the assembly of a variety of products, ensuring they meet specification.

Key responsibilities of the role include:

  •  Manufacturing/assembly of new products working with Engineers, ensuring they meet specification, functional, design and business performance requirements.
  •  Involvement in the manufacturing of innovative products from concept to operation including, prototyping, manufacture, testing, installation and commissioning.
  • Measurement and inspection of products ensuring they are up to specification.
  • Supporting other engineers within the team.
  • Ensuring intellectual property and commercial issues associated with product development and introduction are effectively managed with suppliers and customers.
  • Developing own knowledge and ability.
  • Continuous improvement activities to support business growth.
  • Workshop support, equipment maintenance, stock check.
  • Keeping senior management and Engineers up-to-date on project status and progress.

The successful candidate will hold a Level 3 qualification in Engineering or NVQ level 3 in Engineering or higher.. They will have previous experience of using hand tools will have previously worked in a manufacturing/assembly environment.  will be able to demonstrate the following skills:

  • IT skills
  • Strong planning
  • Organising and time management skills
  • Written and verbal communication skills
  • Be quality focused
  • Be self-motivated
  • Flexible and committed to achieving team/site objectives
  • Strong team player
  • A background in manufacturing engineering.

In return, you will benefit from monthly 1-1s with your line manager, a PDP designed specifically for you, twice yearly appraisals, Employee Engagement surveys, wellbeing events and employee benefits through Unipart Group. 

General

  • Hours: 38hrs per week
  • Location: Advanced Manufacturing Park, Sheffield
  • Benefits: 25 days holiday + statutory Bank Holidays, DC Pension Scheme, cycle to work scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, Life Assurance

Sales/BD Manager

MetLase provides bespoke engineering solutions to complex problems where precision and speed of deployment are critical. Using patented techniques developed within the Aerospace sector, MetLase technologies are now being applied across multiple manufacturing industries such as automotive, construction, defence, energy and renewables.

We are excited to be recruitinf for a Sales/Business Development Manager to join our Sales team to help support our growth plans.  The role will be responsibile for generating new business opportunities to deliver sales growth of MetLase Digital Products, prospecting for potential customers using various direct methods such as calling and face to face meetings, and indirect methods such as networking.  The post holder will be expected to build strong relationsips with both internal & external customers as well as the internal Engineering team.

Key responsibilities of the role include:

  • Identify, qualify and develop new business opportunities with new and existing customers to generate the sales growth required to meet targets.
  • Achievement of sales targets, profit and growth for designated customers – both in sales and margins
  • Understand, articulate and sell MetLase’s product and service propositions
  • To maintain CRM with all relevant customer information and opportunities
  • Supporting the deployment of the Customer Engagement System ensuring collaborative working practice
  • Working with the sales and operations team to plan, prepare and deliver responses to ITT/RFQ, presentations and proposals to existing and prospective customers
  • Undertaking financial analysis of all sales ensuring margins are maximised and profit delivered in line with plan
  • Production of management information for both internal and external use to deliver improvements and exceed customer’s expectations
  • Working with legal in the preparation of contract reviews
  • Communicating clearly, robustly and timely with the customer
  • Working closely with management across the business to identify opportunity for growth
  • Managing and representing the business at conferences, fairs and networking events
  • To achieve and maintain a minimum of level 3 competency in the Unipart Way Tools and Techniques
  • Any other duties/responsibilities as identified and commensurate with the role
  • Maintenance of extensive knowledge of market conditions
  • Attending regular contract and performance reviews across the customer base to enhance
  • satisfaction ensuring retention and growth
  • Working with the engineering team to ensure all customer requirements are delivered upon
  • Attendance at Strategic Reviews (internal and external) supporting the Sales Director
  • Work in a safe manner, taking reasonable care for the health and safety of yourself and other people at work, following appropriate Health and Safety guidance, training and company rules and
  • procedures as appropriate
  • Report any accidents, hazards or dangerous / unsafe behaviour to your line manager immediately

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate previous experience in a Sales role which identified new opportunities and delivered growth.  Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal are essential along with experience in proposal writing and technical comprehension.  The ability to sell and negotiate with closing skills and a good level of IT literacy are also essential in the role.  A formal professional sales qualification would be an advantage but is not essential.

The successful candidate will also be able to demonstrate the following technical/behavioural competencies;

  • Hunter/prospector salesperson.
  • Commercial deal structuring.
  • Proposition development.
  • Proposal/bid creation.
  • Presentation Skills.
  • Negotiation and closing skills.
  • Facilitation skills.
  • Understanding of contracts and legal terms.
  • Customer engagement systems and competencies.
  • CRM knowledge.
  • High degree of numeracy skills.
  • Knowledge of supply chain activities.
  • Flexible.
  • Resiliant

In return, you will benefit from monthly 1-1s with your line manager, a PDP designed specifically for you, twice yearly appraisals, Employee Engagement surveys, wellbeing events and employee benefits through Unipart Group. 

General

  • Hours: 38hrs per week
  • Location: Advanced Manufacturing Park, Sheffield
  • Benefits: 25 days holiday + statutory Bank Holidays, DC Pension Scheme, Business needs car, cycle of work scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, Life Assurance

Stewart Lowth leads digital transformation based on the practical approach honed from MetLase’s expertise in tooling and fixturing

News

Stewart Lowth leads digital transformation based on the practical approach honed from MetLase’s expertise in tooling and fixturing.

Published: 16.02.2023

For Product Development and Innovation Manager Stewart Lowth and the team, getting the right data to the right people is crucial to making informed decisions. He said:

“Optimising productivity of your manufacturing resources is critical. That’s why we recommend our customers to look to the shop floor first to understand the tangible and quantifiable benefits of Industry 4.0 and digitisation.

“Taking advantage of systems that collect and distribute manufacturing data can help you gain greater insight into how to optimise your processes. In addition to protecting your significant investment in digital equipment, this approach supports cross-functional teamwork and standardises operations.

“In a recent collaboration between MetLase, Unipart Rail and Manufacturing, we took a manual process for reconditioning relays, digitised and optimised it, and it is now being used in both Crewe and Coventry to refurbish relays with the latest SmartBench iteration making it a repeatable process.”

Stewart leads a working group that meets weekly to discuss wider possibilities of digital transformation. They explore ideas using new digital technologies and cutting-edge mechanical design to drive innovations within Unipart Technologies Group, looking at a range of areas including robotics, medical devices, and smart digital manufacturing products.

“The benefits of smart manufacturing are no longer exclusive to large companies; they are now much more accessible,” said Stewart. “It is imperative that manufacturers of all sizes prioritise digital transformation as a means of staying competitive now and in the future.”

If you need support with digital transformation contact stewart.lowth@metlase.com.