Latest News & Insight

New Steelite Director

7 April 2011

Steelite International is marking a period of growth and expansion with the appointment of new Operations Director Neil Hooper.

Neil, 42, of Alsager, joins Steelite from his previous post as Group Operations Director at Midlands-based Link 51, the UK's leading racking and storage manufacturer. Prior to this he was Operations Director for business sectors of the international $1bn turnover Kingspan group. His experience also includes posts at Toyota and Rolls Royce as well as manufacturing industry experience in the United States.

He takes over responsibility for all on-site manufacturing, production, plant and quality - and the 522 production staff employed on the factory site.

For Neil bringing his vast industry expertise to the pottery industry is a personal ambition realised. He explained: "I was born and brought up in Stoke-on-Trent and while I've worked all over the world I'm really proud to now be working in my home city's indigenous industry.

This new challenge fills me with a great deal of enthusiasm. I have worked in manufacturing for twent-odd years with market leading OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) but the response from friends and family who know I'm now working in the pottery industry has been so supportive. Everyone is really keen to ensure this industry thrives, and hopefully my skills will help Steelite to do just that.

"I've been here a couple of weeks now and there are some fantastic people with real heart. They are clearly focused and dedicated to making Steelite the best possible business."

CEO of Steelite International Kevin Oakes said "Neil brings with him a wealth of manufacturing experience which will prove invaluable in taking Steelite International to the next level. He has excellent knowledge of world-class manufacturing systems and an excellent track record of helping businesses in Europe and the US achieve great things.

"We are an ambitious business and have built a strong operations team over the past couple of years - including some new blood with fresh ideas - ensuring we remain one step ahead of competition."