CEO Today Global Awards 2024 - 58 - - UNITED KINGDOM - Skills shortage within the industry, compounded by government set minimum wages levels, continuously reducing the gap to the skilled workforce. The skilled members deciding to retire and the desire for younger workers to take up apprenticeships reducing, the industry sector not being part of the education school curriculum meaning lower numbers of people entering the industry and those that do having little understanding. The key opportunities come with working alongside major customers, suppliers, and competitors alike within the heat treatment sector and alongside the industry body, the Contract Heat Treatment Association (CHTA), to maintain the expertise within the sector but also work out collective solutions for governmentdriven change initiatives. How did working together as a duo influence the dynamics and decision making process during the MBO of MTE Heat Treatment, and what strengths did each of you bring to the table that was pivotal in successfully navigating this transition? The strengths of each are split into the key categories for business success within this sector: financial acumen and technical expertise. Ben, with a background in finance, is able to navigate with lenders, and I have technical expertise that gives reassurance that stability and knowledge remain within the business. Working together with a shared vision was pivotal in maintaining the focus to complete the deal, to overcome the challenges set out from the selling party whilst handing over the day-to-day operations and customer liaison. How has the MBO impacted your employees and other stakeholders, and what steps are you taking to ensure a smooth transition? There was a mixed response from employees; some were initially very excited, whereas others were initially sceptical. This is natural and was expected due to the significant change. Our focus has been bringing in lean methodologies and clear business systems, which are key to the empowerment of employees, a vision that the previous ownership did not see value in. Changing the structure to give clear career progression. Other stakeholders largely embraced the new ownership, giving reassurance of stability. Subsequently, they have valued the focus on continuing development and growth, realising these returns as much for their business as it does for ours and securing a guaranteed future for both. Are there any new technologies, services, or market expansions that you are particularly excited about implementing in MTE Heat Treatment? Expanding on the processes currently employed, creating new methods to cope with the ever-changing demands whilst striving for a carbon-neutral future.
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