While no one denies that trading conditions are more difficult with a strong currency, often this is an excuse to paper over the cracks and inefficiencies within a company. In the Midlands there are many engineering companies performing well. But unfortunately there is a raft of businesses under threat primarily because of poor management, lack of investment and failure to produce new products at the right time and the price. Well run businesses, on the other hand, continue to compete effectively by ensuring that the right systems are in place to ensure that production is run at, or near, optimum efficiency. In a manufacturing environment, as in any business, it is vital that there is a good ongoing relationship between the management and workforce.
Directors have to lead by example and demonstrate a clear direction and purpose for the company.
Management teams that fail to recognise that the greatest assets of a business are the skills of its employees will never truly succeed. Harnessing those skills and motivating the workforce is a crucial part of a successful operation. I firmly believe that the views of the workforce need to be heard and taken into account when making important planning decisions for the short and medium term. A workforce needs, and respects, strong but fair leadership and will thrive under it. This drive needs to emanate from the top and filter down through all levels of the company.