New Chairman at Ceramic Industry Forum.
8th November 2005
The Ceramic Industry Forum (CIF), the organisation responsible for promoting competitiveness within the UK ceramic industry, today announced that Ian Dudson CBE would be standing down as chairman.
In his five years at the helm, Mr Dudson has been a key supporter of the initiative and helped to reinforce its reputation in all areas of the sector.
He has also been instrumental in developing the suite of programmes on offer to ensure that the support available is exactly what is required by both small and large companies.
“I have enjoyed my time as Chairman and am pleased to say that I’ve witnessed many positive changes within the UK ceramic industry during that period,” explained Ian, who will be continuing as a CIF board member.
“As CEO of a ceramic firm myself, I appreciate how difficult trading conditions can be, but with help from the CIF over 1600 new products have been brought to market and 40 new ceramic companies established in North Staffordshire alone.
“This really shows how much of an impact the programmes have had on the economy and the reputation of the industry as a whole”.
Ian will be handing over the reins to Dr Roy Hodgkinson, Deputy Managing Director at H & R Johnson, who is delighted at his appointment:
“My Chairmanship of the CIF will provide the perfect opportunity for me to continue the work that we have already started at H & R Johnson. We are committed to our continuous improvement drive and I look forward to working with the team to encourage other ceramic firms to embark on their own journeys.”
“One particular interest of mine is workforce development, and as founder members of the University on the Shop Floor, we have seen first hand how important it is for people to develop themselves, thus we have fully trained staff for the overall success of the company.”
Roy added: “We are also one of only 8 companies currently involved with the Design Immersion Programme, which is run by the CIF and the Design Council.”
Sue Evans, Chief Executive of the Forum, is positive about the future: “As an active Board member for 18 months, Roy has contributed enormously to the work of the CIF and the industry. He is passionate about the sector, particularly employee development and business improvement and supports its strong heritage and future potential. I am in no doubt that he will be a very effective chairman.”
Roy concluded: “Ceramic companies must have access to the information, funding and advice necessary to build competitive advantage and compete on an international stage”.
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